Hyacinth

Hyacinth is a common name for bulbous flowering plants in the genus Hyacinthus, especially the garden plant Hyacinthus orientalis.

Hyacinth is a common name for bulbous flowering plants in the genus Hyacinthus, especially the garden plant Hyacinthus orientalis. The best-known hyacinths are spring-blooming ornamentals prized for their dense flower spikes and strong fragrance. The genus is native mainly to the eastern Mediterranean region and is now widely cultivated. In Canada, hyacinths are a familiar spring bulb and are commonly grown indoors for winter forcing in colder climates.

Taxonomy and naming

Hyacinth is the common name for species in the genus Hyacinthus. Modern sources place the genus in the family Asparagaceae, though older sources and horticultural references sometimes use Hyacinthaceae or Liliaceae.

Description

Hyacinths are bulbous perennial herbs with dense flower spikes and strongly scented blooms. Cultivated forms are usually associated with Hyacinthus orientalis and are grown as spring ornamentals. The flowers come in a variety of colours, including blue, pink, white, purple, yellow, and red.

Distribution and cultivation

The genus is native mainly to the eastern Mediterranean and adjacent parts of western Asia. Hyacinths are widely cultivated in temperate regions and are commonly planted in rich, well-drained soil in gardens or containers. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are often grown from bulbs.

Cultivars and uses

Garden hyacinths include many cultivated varieties selected for flower colour, fragrance, and indoor forcing. Their flowers are also used in floral arrangements and, in some accounts, for perfume production and dyeing.

Cultural references

Hyacinth is linked to Greek mythology, from which the flower is said to derive its name. This association is widely repeated in popular and horticultural references.