Blue Camas? - Ask Extension
Can you verify this is Blue Camas? And safe to eat the root? Found at 1000 ft elev. 8 miles east of Lebanon, Or.
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Blue Camas? #867441
Asked May 07, 2024, 2:31 PM EDT
Can you verify this is Blue Camas? And safe to eat the root? Found at 1000 ft elev. 8 miles east of Lebanon, Or.
Linn County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Lynn,
Your picture looks like the Camas flower. And Camas roots from purple flowered plants are edible, however, we do not give opinions on whether people should eat the roots or not.
Since there is only one in your picture and in the wild it would be great to leave it there and let it spread. As a native plant, there are insects, birds, and animals that use this plant to survive.
Please be aware that there is a white/cream colored camas that is also known as Meadow Death. The flowers are different but the root or bulbs look the same. The bulb is highly toxic.
I am attaching a link from Washington State on the Camassia plant for further information. If you have other questions, please recontact us.
https://www.wnps.org/native-plant-directory/67-camassia-quamash
Your picture looks like the Camas flower. And Camas roots from purple flowered plants are edible, however, we do not give opinions on whether people should eat the roots or not.
Since there is only one in your picture and in the wild it would be great to leave it there and let it spread. As a native plant, there are insects, birds, and animals that use this plant to survive.
Please be aware that there is a white/cream colored camas that is also known as Meadow Death. The flowers are different but the root or bulbs look the same. The bulb is highly toxic.
I am attaching a link from Washington State on the Camassia plant for further information. If you have other questions, please recontact us.
https://www.wnps.org/native-plant-directory/67-camassia-quamash
