Color:

Hyacinth

Hyacinthus orientalis

Bulb

Popular

Intensely fragrant spring bulbs with dense flower spikes. Heavy, sweet scent fills entire room. Waxy, star-shaped florets. Symbol of spring. Popular for forcing indoors. Named for Greek youth Hyacinthus.

Bloom Season

Spring

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

Find local florists carrying Hyacinth

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Perfect For

WeddingMothers-day

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 7 to 14 days

when properly cared for

Cut when about half the florets are open

Use cool water and keep in a cool location

Support heavy heads with narrow-necked vases or ties

Sap can cause skin irritation - wash hands after handling

Extremely fragrant - small amount perfumes room

Keep cool

Change water every 2-3 days

Support heavy flower heads

Fragrance Profile

Very Strong

Intensely sweet, heady floral fragrance that fills a room

May be overwhelming for fragrance-sensitive individuals

Safety Information

Toxic to Cats

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Humans

Bulbs are most toxic - contain oxalic acid causing skin irritation and digestive upset

Fun Facts

Named after Hyacinthus, a Greek youth loved by Apollo

During Tulip Mania, a single hyacinth bulb cost more than a house

The fragrance was so prized that special hyacinth vases were designed

Dutch growers have developed over 2,000 cultivars

Origin & History

Native to Eastern Mediterranean

Native to the eastern Mediterranean, hyacinths were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. They caused their own mania before tulips, with bulbs selling for incredible sums. The Dutch became master breeders, and today hyacinths remain beloved for their intoxicating fragrance and jewel-toned colors.