Quick answer: Common camas (Camassia quamash) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: William & Wilma Follette @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA NRCS. 1992. Western wetland flora: Field office guide to pla, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Heavy, winter- & spring-moist soils |
| Bloom | Apr-Jun |
| Height | Up to 3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Elk/deer/moose graze plant in early spring |
bulbs edible when cooked (traditional food) but resemble toxic Zigadenus (death camas); do not confuse
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Common camas
Where is Common camas native?
Common camas (Camassia quamash) is native to California, Oregon and Washington. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Common camas bloom?
Common camas blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Common camas need?
Light: Sun. Water: Moist. Soil: Heavy, winter- & spring-moist soils. Mature height: Up to 3 ft.
Is Common camas good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Elk/deer/moose graze plant in early spring.
Is Common camas toxic?
bulbs edible when cooked (traditional food) but resemble toxic Zigadenus (death camas); do not confuse.
Where can I buy real Common camas seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Camassia quamash on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Common camas.
- Checker lily Fritillaria affinis
- Douglas iris Iris douglasiana
- Tall Oregon grape Mahonia aquifolium
- Henderson's shooting star Dodecatheon hendersonii
- Pacific aster Symphyotrichum chilense
- Pacific trillium Trillium ovatum
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