Hyacinth

Hyacinthus orientalis · Flower

A spring bulb with dense spikes of strongly scented flowers. Plant in autumn for spring color outdoors, or force a bulb in a pot or glass for winter bloom indoors.

💧WaterModerate in spring, dry in summer (estimated)

☀️LightSun to partial shade

🐾PetsToxic to pets

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate in growth; keep dry in summer dormancy
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile, pH 6.0–7.0
Temperature: Needs about 12 weeks below 48 °F to flower
Spacing: 4–6 in apart, bulbs 6 in deep
Container: At least 6 in deep; 3 bulbs per 6 in pot
Bloom: Early to mid spring
Lifespan: Perennial bulb; flowers smaller after year one

When?

Plant bulbs in autumn once soil has cooled, usually 6–8 weeks before the ground freezes. For indoor forcing, chill bulbs for 12–14 weeks first (estimated).

Step by step

Wear gloves; the bulb skin can irritate hands.
Choose firm bulbs with no soft spots or mould.
Plant pointed end up, about 6 in deep and 4–6 in apart.
Water once after planting, then leave over winter.
Remove faded flower spikes but leave leaves to feed the bulb.
Let leaves yellow naturally before cutting them off.
Keep the spot fairly dry in summer while bulbs rest.

Common problems

Bulbs rot in the groundSoil too wet; plant in raised or sandy beds.

Short or no flower spikeNot enough cold; chill longer before forcing.

Flower spike flops overToo warm or dark indoors; give a cooler, brighter place.

Pets

Toxic to cats and dogs according to ASPCA, the bulbs most of all. Keep bulbs out of reach of digging dogs. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Tulip Daffodil Cyclamen

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.