Hyacinthus orientalis

Hyacinthus orientalis, or Hyacinth, is a hardy, perennial, bulbous herb with basal, narrowly strap-shaped leaves and fragrant spring flowers that rise on an erect stalk. It grows easily in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. It does tolerate summer drought and some light shade. Soils should be kept moist (particularly if soils are dry) immediately after planting to encourage root growth but taper off moisture after bloom as bulbs head toward dormancy. Promptly remove spent flower spikes so plants do not need to expend energy on seed production. Bulbs are commonly grown in containers, especially when forced for indoor winter bloom.

It can be grown in USDA zone 4 with mulch, but does well in higher zones without mulch.

The plant blooms in mid spring and each bulb usually produces only one flower scape. The flowers are pungently sweet and marketed as a natural plant deodorizer for the home kitchen or bathroom, however, the perfume scent can be troublesome for asthmatics. Some regard it as a patriotic plant with "red, white & blue" colors. 

It is often used as a forced interior pot plant or in outdoor landscapes in massing or edging beds. If grown as a perennial outdoors, it can lead to smaller- sized, widely-spaced flowers each successive year. A large number of hybrid cultivars are available in commerce under this species name in flower colors including various shades of blue, purple, pink, red and white.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

 No serious insect or disease problems. Bulb rot may occur in poorly drained soils. Wear gloves when planting bulbs to avoid possible allergic skin reactions.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.