Wild Hyacinth (Camassia leichtlinii)

Family: Hyacinthaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Camassia leichtlinii is a BULB growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from March to August, in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild, starchy flavour, but a gummy texture that reduces the enjoyment of it somewhat. — Bulb - raw or cooked.; The bulb is about 3cm in diameter, eaten raw it has a mild, starchy flavour, but a gummy texture that reduces the enjoyment of it somewhat.; It is excellent when slow baked, however, developing a sweet flavour and making a very good potato substitute.; The cooked bulb can also be dried for later use or ground into a powder and used as a thickener in soups or as an additive to cereal flours when making bread, cakes etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Meadows, prairies and hillsides that are moist, at least in early spring. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)