Camassia leichtlinii
By Emma Jarvis, Nursery Manager at Barnsdale Gardens.
Camassia leichtlinii is a tall, graceful and reliable bulb, producing elegant spires of star-shaped flowers in late spring. Perfect for bridging the gap between spring bulbs and early summer perennials, Camassia leichtlinii thrives in British gardens, even in heavier soils.
Why Choose Camassia Leichtlinii?
Camassia leichtlinii is a striking lavender blue, however there are violet, cream and white subspecies and varieties available, each equally as lovely. Each stem becomes full of flowers that open gradually from the bottom upwards, giving a display for weeks. Camassia leichtlinii gives height without heaviness, meaning it is ideal to mix throughout borders and is a great choice for naturalistic planting schemes.
Where to Plant Camassia leichtlinii
Native to western North America, camassias grow naturally in damp meadows, prairies and woodland edges. They are very well suited to the UK climate and prefer moisture-retentive soil.
Unlike many bulbs, Camassia leichtlinii tolerates heavier soils and will even thrive in clay. A sunny or lightly shaded position is ideal, and once established the plants require very little attention.
Here, at Barnsdale Gardens, Camassia leichtlinii grows happily in the heavy clay soil of our Cottage Garden, while Camassia leichtlinii ‘Alba’ can be spotted in the Mediterranean Garden.
Planting Companions and Garden Design Ideas
Camassias look particularly effective when planted in drifts. Their tall flower spikes combine beautifully with ornamental grasses such as Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Goldtau’ or Stipa tenuissima, creating movement and texture in the border.
They also mix well with late spring perennials, adding vertical interest as the garden fills out. If left in place, the seedheads develop attractive pods that provide architectural interest as the garden moves into early summer.
How to Grow Camassia leichtlinii
Camassias are easy to propagate. Clumps can be lifted and divided after the foliage has died back in summer, and plants will also naturalise slowly over time by seed.
On the nursery we grow them in peat-free compost, where they return strongly each year. Once established they are very reliable, although this season we have noticed a few of the fresh new leaf tips have been nibbled by mice.
Wildlife Value in the Garden
Camassia leichtlinii is not only hardy and beautiful but also valuable for wildlife. The open, starry flowers provide nectar and pollen for pollinators emerging from hibernation, including long-tongued bumblebees, solitary bees and hoverflies.
See Camassia leichtlinii at Barnsdale Gardens
If you’re looking to add height, movement and elegance to your late spring garden, Camassia leichtlinii comes highly recommended.
You can see Camassia growing around the gardens at Barnsdale, and plants are often available on the nursery during the growing season.
You can also find it online by clicking here.
