Hyacinths

Sweet-scented hyacinths are extremely popular, both in the garden and in pots. In the garden they look best when you plant an entire bed/border in the same colours. They are widely grown commercially, not only as cut flowers but also in pots. The flower stems are 15-30 cm high, and the flower colour ranges from various shades of blue, light and dark pink to white, cream and yellow. The individual hyacinth flowers are close together on the stem forming a compact inflorescence. Hyacinth bulbs usually flower best in their first year; the second year and thereafter fewer and looser inflorescences are produced. Some people with sensitive skin experience irritation when handling hyacinth bulbs , so wear gloves if you think you may be one of these people.