There are only three species of hyacinths that occur naturally in Western and Central Asia. The first species is Hyacinthus litwinowii, followed by Hyacinthus transcaspicus, and finally Hyacinthus orientalis.
Hyacinthus orientalis is still the most widely used hyacinth species in the world today, as it is ideal for cut flowers, gardens, and potted plants. As early as 1562, this species was brought from Turkey and cultivated as a curiosity in botanical gardens.
Especially during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, enormous sums were paid for hyacinth bulbs—comparable to the tulip mania. There were even varieties with double flowers, which are now rarely seen. At that time, there were more than 2,000 different hyacinth varieties. Today, only a few of these are still cultivated by bulb growers.
Which plant family does the hyacinth belong to?
The hyacinth belongs to the Hyacinthaceae plant family. In the 18th century, interest in hyacinths grew enormously, leading to speculative trade—comparable to the tulip mania a century earlier.
The name hyacinth comes from an ancient Greek name and was used by, among others, Homer. According to legend, the flower originated from the blood of Hyacinthos, who was accidentally killed by the god Apollo.
Characteristics of hyacinths
Sweetly scented hyacinths are extremely popular, both in gardens and in pots. In the garden, they look their best when planted in entire beds or borders in the same colors.
They are widely cultivated as both cut flowers and potted plants. The flower stems grow to about 15–30 cm tall and come in various colors: blue, pink (light and dark), white, cream, and yellow.
The flowers are tightly packed along the stem, forming a compact flower spike. Hyacinth bulbs usually bloom best in their first year; after that, they often produce fewer and looser flower clusters.
Please note: some people with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation when handling hyacinth bulbs—wear gloves if necessary.
When do you plant hyacinth bulbs?
Plant hyacinth bulbs from early to mid-autumn, at a depth of about 15 cm and with approximately 20 cm of spacing between them. After planting, you can apply a layer of compost or well-rotted cow manure.
After flowering, you may add some fertilizer. Outdoors, watering is usually not necessary, but in pots the bulbs should be kept moist during the growing period.
Hyacinths are not very susceptible to diseases or pests, but in overly wet conditions the bulbs may rot.
Please note: specially prepared bulbs for indoor forcing often will not bloom if they have not received enough cold and darkness after planting.
Growing and Caring for Hyacinths
Hyacinths prefer a sunny or partially shaded position, but they do not perform well in deep shade. They can be grown both indoors and outdoors, either in pots or directly in open ground. It is important to provide well-drained soil so that excess water can drain away easily and the bulbs do not sit in wet conditions.
Hyacinth bulbs are planted in autumn, at a depth of about 15 cm and with roughly 20 cm of space between each bulb. After planting, compost or well-rotted cow manure can be added to enrich the soil. Once the plants have finished flowering, a light application of fertilizer can help support the bulbs. Outdoors, additional watering is usually unnecessary, but bulbs grown in pots should be kept regularly moist during the growing period.
Hyacinths are generally not very susceptible to diseases. However, bulb rot may occur if the soil is too wet. Pre-prepared bulbs intended for indoor flowering may fail to bloom if they have not received a sufficient cold dormancy period.
Hyacinths typically bloom from late winter to mid-spring. For flowering as early as Christmas, specially prepared bulbs should be planted in September.
Hyacinths: Uses, Care, and History
Hyacinths are very suitable as cut flowers. When the vase water is changed daily, they will remain attractive for about a week. Their strong fragrance and compact flower spikes make them a popular choice for indoor arrangements.
After flowering, the faded flower stems should be cut off. However, continue watering and fertilizing the plant until the leaves turn yellow and die back naturally. This allows the bulb to store energy for the following season.
Hyacinths grown in pots are a beautiful alternative to cut flowers and also make an excellent gift. They can even be forced to bloom in winter, when color and fragrance are especially welcome indoors.
For outdoor pot cultivation, use a pot at least 15 cm deep. Add compost, cover with about 10 cm of garden soil, and water thoroughly after planting. Place the pot in a sunny position. Once the flower color becomes visible, the pot can be moved indoors.
For indoor cultivation, use a pot 10–15 cm deep and cover the bulbs lightly with compost. Water them and place the pot in a cool, dark location, such as a shed or cellar, at around 4 °C. After 10–12 weeks, when green tips of about 2.5–5 cm appear, move the pot into the light.
Hyacinths can also be grown on special hyacinth glasses. Fill the glass with water so that it reaches just below the bulb. Keep the glass in a cool, dark place until roots and a flower bud develop, then move it to the light. Please note that bulbs grown on glass will bloom only once and can be discarded after flowering.
Hyacinths may sometimes fall over because the size of the bulb determines the weight of the flower spike. Bulbs sized 15–16 are ideal for garden use, as they produce lighter flower clusters that are less likely to topple. For this reason, Gerven Bulbs deliberately does not sell extremely large hyacinth bulbs, ensuring that the flowers remain upright and well-balanced.
In the past, the hyacinth symbolized peace, happiness, devotion, and beauty. In Christianity, the flower was seen as a sign of love and happiness and often appeared in churches and religious monuments.
There are still historical hyacinths in existence—old cultivars dating from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. These varieties often have looser flower spikes and a stronger fragrance than modern types. Examples include ‘King of the Blues’, ‘Chestnut Flower’, and ‘Lord Wellington’. The well-known historical variety ‘Gloria Mundi’ was discovered in Romania in 1767 and is still available today.