How to Grow Hyacinthus

Hyacinthus are bulbous perennials, native to south east France and north east Italy with textured strap-shaped leaves and intensely fragrant blue, violet or white flowers that bundle together to develop a rich and visually striking cluster of colour during the spring. They are best suited to flower beds and borders within coastal, courtyard and informal garden settings. You should expect to see Hyacinthus grow to an approximate height of 25cm (10”) and a spread of 15cm (6”). Please take care when handling Hyacinthus, as they can cause skin irritation.

Hyacinthus are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of chalk, clay, sand and loam within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance during the autumn. Prepare your soil by amending the planting area with plenty of organic matter. Dig a hole that is approximately 15cm deep (6”) and 5-8cm (2-3”) wide, placing your plants gently into the planting area, providing a thorough watering once in place. Hyacinthus will thrive best in either full sun or part shade in a sheltered position.

To ensure the survival of your bulbs over the winter months, you may wish to mulch the area surrounding your Hyacinthus for frost protection. As your flowers start to fade, you may wish to cut the stalks, leaving the foliage in place until it eventually dries out.

It is possible to propagate Hyacinthus by removing offsets in the summer when your plants are dormant.