Hyacinthus orientalis

Hyacinth is a hardy, spring-flowering bulb with basal, narrowly strap-shaped leaves. Flowers arise on an erect stalk, each 6-parted, funnel-shaped, variously colored, and fragrant. It tolerates (prefers) summer drought, but should be kept moist after planting and during the growing season. Cover bulbs to a depth of 8 in. and space 1-3 in. apart. Hyacinthus orientalis flowers in mid-spring (April/May) for 2-3 weeks. It can be grown in zone 4 with mulch, or 5 to 7 without mulch. It is great for use in beds, borders, and rock gardens.

Family name Hyacinthaceae (formerly Liliaceae)

Quick ID Hints:

• Perianth parts fused to midway, lobes reflexed
• Leaves are wide and strap-shaped, 2 or more per plant
• Single, many-flowered, heavily scented flower scapes
• Bell-shaped flowers in pink, blue, or white shades

Acaulescent, perennial, bulbous herb to 1'.

Blooms in mid spring; each bulb usually produces only one flower scape, flowers are pungently sweet, and marketed as a natural plant deodorizer for the home kitchen or bathroom; perfume seant can be troublesome for asthmatics; regarded as a patriotic plant with "red, white & blue" colors. 

Utilized as a forced interior pot plant; or outdoor landscapes in massing or edging beds; perennialization outdoors leads to smaller- sized flowers each year spaced farther apart. 

Prefers well-drained, fertile, organic-amended soil and full sun; intolerant of wet conditions; plant 6" deep and 8.5" apart in mid fall; remove spent flowers to conserve bulb energy.