Camassia quamash

Published: May 2007

The name Quamash is a Nez Perce term for the plant's bulb, which was gathered and used as a food source by tribes in the Pacific Northwest. The pale blue to deep blue flowers grow throughout May and June. Each flower is radially symmetrical and star-shaped. The flowers produce both male and female organs and are pollinated by bees, and are noted for attracting wildlife. Camassia quamash can be found near the Taxodium Swamp.