Hyacinthus
| Name: Hyacinthus | Family: Asparagaceae | Type Plant: Perennial bulb, used as a cut flower |
| Flowering time: Early to mid-spring (March to April) | Best time to buy: Late winter to early spring (when in bloom) | Max Height: 20-30 cm |
| Sun/Shadow: Full sun to partial shade |
Origin
The Hyacinthus Orientalis is a plant that is part of the Asparagus family and comes in flower bulbs.
The Hyacinthus is a very popular houseplant that originates from the Mediterranean area where it grows at an altitude from 400 to 1700 meters on limestone cliffs among the shrubs.
The plant originally came with single flowers in the colour blue but when it was discovered by Europeans in the 16th century, the Hyacinthus soon got supplied and multiplied.
During the two centuries after that, the Hyacinthus was not exactly the cheapest plant. It was only for the richest people in the country. Luckily, times have changed and now we can all enjoy the beauty of the Hyacinthus.
Characteristics
A Hyacinthus bulb is bigger than a tulip or crocus bulb. Thick leaves with a round edge emerge from the bulb and out of the middle of them, a long stem will grow. The whole stem is covered in flowers, that come in pink, yellow, red, purple, white or blue.
When the Hyacinthus was brought to Europe, the plant got multiplied which results in unique new colours such as a salmon colour, or a soft yellow.
The flowers of the Hyacinthus are curly and have a notable scent, that is rather sweet and full.
Care
The bulb of the Hyacinthus is easily at risk of rotting when it gets too much water, but don’t let the plant dry out either.
When the Hyacinthus has grown its stems, keeping these clean is of great importance.
Never get rid of the bulb. The bulb provides firmness and can store water.
If the Hyacinthus is put in a vase, this vase needs to be clean and spacious enough. Refresh the water often and don’t put your vase with Hyacinthus in the direct sunlight or in draft.
Blooming time
When the plant is outside, it naturally blossoms from March until May, and the growing period can last from six until eight weeks.
Thanks to a special treatment, the Hyacinthus can grow inside throughout the entire year.
Growers imitate the natural growing process in greenhouses so that the plant can be enjoyed in every month. This makes the Hyacinthus very popular in winter months.
When most plants and trees lose their leaves or are done blooming, the Hyacinthus can give a home the colour it needs.
