Howell’s Camas: A Rare Oregon Native Worth Protecting in Your Garden
If you’re passionate about native plants and conservation gardening, Howell’s camas (Camassia howellii) might just capture your heart – though finding it for your garden comes with some important considerations. This rare perennial bulb is one of Oregon’s special botanical treasures, offering both beauty and a chance to participate in conservation efforts right in your backyard.
What Makes Howell’s Camas Special
Howell’s camas is a stunning herbaceous perennial that belongs to the broader camas family, beloved by both Native American communities and modern gardeners alike. This particular species produces elegant spikes of blue to purple flowers that emerge in late spring to early summer, creating a spectacular display above its grass-like foliage.
As a true bulb plant, Howell’s camas grows from underground storage organs, sending up slender leaves and eventually those gorgeous flower stalks that can make any garden feel like a piece of wild Oregon meadowland.
Where Does It Come From?
Here’s where things get particularly interesting – and important. Camassia howellii is endemic to Oregon, meaning it grows naturally nowhere else on Earth. You’ll find it specifically in the southwestern regions of the state, making it a true Oregon original.
The Conservation Reality Check
Before you get too excited about adding this beauty to your garden, there’s something crucial you need to know. Howell’s camas has a Global Conservation Status of S2, which means it’s considered Imperiled. In plain terms, this species is extremely rare, with only 6 to 20 known populations and somewhere between 1,000 to 3,000 individual plants remaining in the wild.
This rarity status doesn’t mean you can’t grow it – in fact, responsible cultivation can actually help conservation efforts. However, it does mean you need to be very careful about where you source your bulbs.
Why Consider Growing Howell’s Camas?
Despite its rarity (or perhaps because of it), there are compelling reasons to consider this plant:
- You’ll be growing a piece of botanical history unique to Oregon
- The blue-purple flower spikes are absolutely stunning and bloom when many other natives are just getting started
- It’s an excellent pollinator plant, attracting bees and other beneficial insects
- Once established, it’s quite drought tolerant – perfect for water-wise gardening
- You’ll be participating in conservation by maintaining genetic diversity outside of wild populations
Garden Design and Landscape Role
Howell’s camas works beautifully in several garden settings. It’s perfect for native plant gardens where you want to showcase Oregon’s unique flora, and it fits wonderfully into naturalized meadow plantings. The plant also works well in rock gardens or bulb gardens where its seasonal growth pattern can be accommodated.
The grass-like foliage provides nice texture contrast against broader-leaved plants, while the flower spikes add vertical interest and seasonal color. It pairs well with other native Oregon plants and can create stunning combinations with wildflowers that bloom at similar times.
Growing Conditions and Care
The good news is that Howell’s camas isn’t particularly fussy once you understand its needs. Here’s what it requires:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – soggy conditions will kill the bulbs
- Water: Moderate water during growing season, dry summers (mimicking its native habitat)
- Hardiness: Suitable for USDA zones 6-9
Planting and Care Tips
If you decide to grow Howell’s camas, here’s how to give it the best start:
- Plant bulbs in fall, about 3-4 inches deep
- Choose a location with good drainage – consider raised beds if your soil tends to stay wet
- Allow the foliage to die back naturally after blooming to feed the bulb for next year
- Once established, reduce summer watering to mimic natural dry conditions
- Be patient – bulbs may take a year or two to become fully established
The Responsible Sourcing Imperative
Here’s the most important part of this entire article: if you want to grow Howell’s camas, you must source your bulbs responsibly. Never collect from wild populations – this could contribute to the species’ decline. Instead:
- Purchase only from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their own stock
- Ask specifically about the source of their Camassia howellii bulbs
- Consider contacting native plant societies or botanical gardens for guidance
- Be patient – responsibly sourced bulbs may be hard to find and worth waiting for
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
Despite its rarity, Howell’s camas pulls its weight in supporting local ecosystems. The nectar-rich flowers attract various bee species and other pollinators during its blooming period. By growing this plant, you’re providing valuable resources for beneficial insects while also supporting the broader web of life that depends on native plants.
The Bottom Line
Howell’s camas represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. It’s a chance to grow something truly special – a plant that exists nowhere else on Earth and showcases the unique beauty of Oregon’s native flora. At the same time, its imperiled status means we must approach it with respect and care.
If you can source bulbs responsibly and provide the right growing conditions, Howell’s camas can be a meaningful addition to your native plant garden. You’ll not only enjoy its seasonal beauty but also participate in the important work of conservation through cultivation. Just remember: with rare plants comes great responsibility, but also great rewards for both you and the natural world.
