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Hyacinthus orientalis
Hyacinth
Hyacinthus orientalis
Hyacinthus orientalis, commonly known as the common hyacinth, is a bulbous flowering plant prized for its intensely fragrant and colorful blooms. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, from Turkey to Lebanon and northern Israel. It features dense spikes of bell-shaped flowers in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, red, white, and yellow. Hyacinths are popular in gardens and as indoor potted plants, adding a splash of color and fragrance to spring displays.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan5 years lifespan
Toxic to humansToxic to humans
ToxicityToxic to: Cats, Dogs, Horses
Sun Requirements4-6 hours direct sunlight (Partial Sun)
Pollination

Method: Animal

Notes: Primarily pollinated by insects such as bees.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Notes: Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to bulb rot. Ensure good drainage.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Maintenance: Generally, no specific humidity maintenance is needed for outdoor hyacinths. Indoor plants may benefit from occasional misting if the air is very dry.

Cleaning RequirementsRemove spent flower spikes to encourage the bulb to store energy for the next season's blooms. Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
Temperature Range

Min: -15°C

Max: 25°C

Alternative NamesWild Hyacinth

Cultivars

Blue

Price: $36
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Burgundy

Price: $36
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China Pink

Price: $36
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Fondant

Price: $36
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Jan Bos

Price: $36
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Muscari armeniacum
Garden Grape-hyacinth
Muscari armeniacum
Grape hyacinths complement the larger hyacinths with their smaller, delicate blue flowers, creating a beautiful contrast in texture and color. They also help to deter pests that might affect the main Hyacinthus orientalis plant.
Allium giganteum
Giant Allium
Allium giganteum

Giant Alliums, while beautiful, can compete with Hyacinthus orientalis for space and nutrients due to their large size and extensive root systems.

Bulb Mites

Bulb mites can infest hyacinth bulbs, causing damage and potentially leading to rot. Symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing foliage, and soft, decaying bulbs.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest hyacinths, causing distorted growth and potentially spreading viruses. They are usually found on new growth and under leaves.

Snails and Slugs

Snails and slugs can feed on hyacinth foliage and flowers, leaving unsightly holes and damaging the plant. They are most active during wet conditions.

Steps:

    • After the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer, carefully dig up the hyacinth bulbs.
    • Look for small bulb offsets (baby bulbs) attached to the main bulb.
    • Gently separate the offsets from the main bulb.
    • Plant the offsets in well-draining soil at the same depth as the original bulb.
    • Water regularly and wait for them to mature and bloom, which may take a few years.

Neem Oil

Effective for controlling aphids and bulb mites on hyacinths.

Diatomaceous Earth

A natural way to control slugs and snails around hyacinths.

Bone Meal

Provides phosphorus for strong root and bulb development in hyacinths.