How to grow Camassia in the UK
Camassia leichtlinii
Camassia (Camassia leichtlinii) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Loves damp soil unlike most spring bulbs. Excellent in long grass meadow plantings. This guide covers when and how to sow Camassia, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Camassia
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep Plant | Oct Plant | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Free-draining soil; bulbs rot in waterlogged ground
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun to dappled shade; many naturalise under deciduous trees
- Sowing depth
- 2–3× the bulb height deep
- Spacing
- 2–3 bulb-widths apart
- Sowing
- Plant dormant bulbs in autumn (tulips best in November)
- Growing
- Little care needed; feed after flowering if naturalising
- Harvest & upkeep
- Let foliage die back naturally — do not tie or cut for 6 weeks after flowering
- Watch for
- Slugs on shoots; squirrels dig newly planted bulbs; narcissus bulb fly
Companion planting for Camassia
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Camassia this year
Add Camassia to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Camassia FAQs
How much sun does Camassia need?
Camassia prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Camassia easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Loves damp soil unlike most spring bulbs. Excellent in long grass meadow plantings.