Family: Hyacinthaceae
Common Name: Hyacinth

Native to western and central Asia, this genus of bulbs contains only three species, but it is the cultivars of Hyacinthus orientalis that are grown by gardeners. They are valued for their often highly fragrant flowers which are pro­duced in spring. As well as being grown in spring bedding schemes, they are also suited to patio containers, and growing in bowls indoors for winter or spring flowering.

Species

H. orientalis, the common hyacinth, from Turkey, Syria and the Lebanon, is a favourite with gardeners. It grows 15-30 cm (6-12 in) high, with dense spikes of very fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, which vary widely in colour, and glossy, green, strap-like foliage. Most of the larger varieties have been raised from this species which is still cultivated in southern France as a source of perfume Cultivars of H. orientalis are available in white, pale blue, deep blue, pink, red and yellow flowers.

Cultivation

In the garden, hyacinths need a deep, reasonably fertile, well-drained soil in a position exposed to full sun or partial shade. Plant the bulbs in autumn, 10 cm (4 in) deep and about 10 cm (4 in) apart. For winter blooms indoors, plant in bowls of soilless potting com­post with the tops of the bulbs just visible above the compost, again in autumn. It is possible to buy specially prepared hyacinth bulbs which flower early in winter, generally around Christmas time. After planting, keep the bowls of bulbs in a cool, completely dark place.

After six to eight weeks, when the bulbs have rooted, the pots should be kept at a room temperature of about 10°C (50°F). When the plants have flowered, the bulbs can then be planted out in garden beds.

Bulbs can also be grown in water or moist, bulb fiber in specially designed, glass bowls. These bowls should be kept in a cool, dark place for about eight weeks until the roots have formed. They can then be placed in a rea­sonably light position in a greenhouse or warm room at about 18°-21°C (64°-70°F). After they have bloomed once, the bulbs can be planted out.

Hyacinths forced indoors are unlikely to flower the following year. Propagate the species from seed sown in light soil in boxes which should be kept in a cold frame. It takes at least three years for the seedlings to come to flower. Hyacinths can also be propagated from bulblets or offsets removed from the old bulbs. These are best planted in open beds in the autumn and take two to three years to bloom.

Production of bulblets can be induced by scooping out a saucer-shaped depression in the bottom of a mature bulb so that about one-third or more of the bulb is removed. Place the wounded bulb in a dry, shady spot to dry the wounded area completely before planting it out. Plant in a free-draining, sandy loam and do not over-water.

Climate

Zone 7.