The Camas Lily (pronounced Ka-muss) is native to the Pacific Northwest and in BC is found primarily in and around southern Vancouver Island. It's a staple in the diet of the Coast Salish People, who traditionally harvested and prepared the bulbs for sustenance as well as for ceremonies and trading. It could be cooked and dried, making it an important overwinter food. Cultivation was historically done by women and it was also used medicinally, including in birthing. 

​

Camas continues to be important to Indigenous food sovereignty and cultural reclamation. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of native wildlife conservation.