Hyacinthus orientalis

Hyacinth is a hardy, perennial, bulbous herb in the Hyacinthaceae (hyacinth) family. It is native to Eurasia, Mediterranean, and southern Turkey. A large number of hybrid cultivars are available.

Hyacinth grows in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It can grow to a height of 12 inches and 3 feet wide. It tolerates drought, but soils should be kept moist immediately after planting to encourage root growth; taper off watering after bloom as bulbs head toward dormancy. Promptly remove spent flower spikes so plants do not need to expend energy on seed production. Recommended propagation strategy is by division, which will also aid in the reduction of overcrowding and stress to the existing plant. 

The plant blooms in mid-spring and each bulb usually produces only one flower. The flowers, which attract bees, are pungently sweet and marketed as a natural plant deodorizer for the home kitchen or bathroom; however, the scent may be overpowering for sensitive noses. Hyacinths are sometimes offered as a florist plant, but they are unsuited to long-term growth in a home.

Bulbs are commonly grown in containers, especially when forced for indoor winter bloom. Use hyacinth in outdoor landscapes planted in mass or to edge beds in drought-tolerant, sensory, or rock gardens. If grown as a perennial outdoors, it can lead to smaller-sized, widely spaced flowers each successive year.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Bulb rot may occur in poorly drained soils. All parts of the plant are considered mildly toxic if ingested. It can also cause contact dermatitis. 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.