New Native Flower Bulbs at the Native Plant & Seed Library This Fall
We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Native Plant & Seed Library includes three gorgeous Portland Plant List–approved native bulbs, all sourced locally from Good Year Farms:
Camas Lily (Camassia quamash)
Narrowleaf Onion (Allium amplectens)
Ookow (Dichelostemma congestum)
These beautiful blooms not only add seasonal color—but also support pollinators and celebrate our Pacific Northwest heritage. We will offer bulbs at 5 bulbs per visit, while supplies last. And if you want more make sure and visit Good Year Farms to get more!
Camas Lily (Camassia quamash)
Height: 1–2 feet;
Sun: Full to partial sun;
Soil: Tolerates moist to heavy soil—excellent for wetter spots;
Planting Depth/Spacing: Plant bulbs in fall, ~3 times bulb height (approx. 4–6 in deep, depending on bulb size); space 3–6 in apart;
Care: Prefers consistent soil moisture—ideal for areas where tulips struggle; low maintenance; bulbs disappear after bloom and return each spring;
Narrowleaf Onion (Allium amplectens)
Height: 6–12 inches;
Sun: Full sun;
Soil: Dry, well-drained;
Planting: Plant in fall (depth not specified on site, follow general bulb rule: ~2–3 times the bulb height);
Features: Clustered white-pink blooms that attract hummingbirds and bees; rabbit deterrent; ideal for containers, rain gardens, or rockeries;
Ookow (Dichelostemma congestum)
Height: Around 2 feet (some sources: 24–36 in); Spread: ~3–4 inches;
Sun: Full to part sun;
Soil: Dry to medium, well-drained; drought-tolerant once established;
Planting Depth: About 4 in (10 cm) deep in fall; or more generally, 2–3 times bulb height; allow spacing ~twice the bulb diameter;
Care: Low water needs after bloom, drought-hardy, minimal pest issues; blooms May–August with striking purple clusters; great for meadowscapes, containers, or rock gardens.
Planting Guide: Practical Tips
When to Plant
Bulbs are available for pick-up starting at our Grand Opening for the Native Plant & Seed Library Sept. 27-28 at the Unitarian Universalist Church (4505 E 18th St, Vancouver, WA 98661). Fall is the perfect time to plant!
How Deep to Plant
Camas Lily: ~4–6 in deep, ~3–6 in apart.
Narrowleaf Onion: ~2–3× bulb height.
Ookow: ~4 in deep or ~2–3× bulb height; space ~2× bulb width.
After Planting Care
Water well after planting to settle the soil.
Camas needs moist soil; narrowleaf onion and ookow prefer dry to moderate moisture, with minimal summer watering.
All plants naturalize—less maintenance is needed!
Why These Bulbs Matter
Cultural Importance: Camas has deep roots in local Indigenous traditions and landscapes.
Pollinator Power: All three attract bees, especially native species, and ookow even charms hummingbirds.
Ecological Fit: Being local natives, they thrive with low inputs and enrich wildlife habitat.
Make sure to visit the Native Plant & Seed Library this fall to grab these bulbs and bring a vibrant, pollinator-friendly touch to your garden—while supporting regionally appropriate habitat restoration! Let us know which blooms you're most excited about.
