Hyacinth Hyacinthus orientalis 'Apricot Passion'
ABOUT
The 'Apricot Passion' variety of hyacinth boasts a striking display of flower clusters known as racemes, that are densely packed with tubular-bell-shaped florets. These blossoms exude a delightful fragrance and present in a unique apricot hue, gradually fading to a soft pinkish-cream toward the edges. This creates a gradient of warmth that's both calming and visually arresting. The flowers emerge from sturdy, upright stalks, rising above a base of glossy, dark green, strap-like leaves that form a dense tuft, typical of the hyacinth form. These leaves provide a lush backdrop for the vivid floral spikes, accentuating their color and making the blooms stand out all the more in garden beds, borders, or containers. The 'Apricot Passion' is a captivating plant that is particularly sought after not just for its aromatic flowers and delightful color, but also for its ability to bring early spring cheer to any setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Common Hyacinth, Garden Hyacinth, Dutch Hyacinth
Common names
Hyacinthus orientalis 'Apricot Passion'.
ToxicityTo humans
Hyacinth, which includes the variety 'Apricot Passion', can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains chemical compounds such as oxalic acid and alkaloids, which can cause poisoning. Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Touching the bulbs can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. In severe cases, if a large quantity of the plant is consumed, it could lead to more serious symptoms such as trembling, difficulty breathing, and even heart problems, although such extreme reactions are rare.
To pets
Hyacinth is also toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. The plant contains alkaloids and other compounds that can cause poisoning if any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, is ingested. The symptoms of hyacinth poisoning in pets are similar to those in humans and can include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and excessive salivation. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to an increase in heart rate and changes in respiration. If you suspect your pet has ingested hyacinth, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately as it can be potentially fatal if left untreated.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Apricot
Height
8-12 inches (20-30 cm)
Spread
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Middle East
Benefits
General Benefits- Spring Bloom: Adds vibrant color to gardens with its early spring blossoms.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers an appealing apricot hue, enhancing the visual variety in landscaping designs.
- Fragrance: Emits a pleasant and strong scent that can perfume an entire garden area.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, making it versatile for patios and balconies.
- Border Planting: Ideal for planting in borders due to its upright flower spikes.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are excellent for creating fragrant, fresh floral arrangements.
- Easy to Grow: Low maintenance and easy to cultivate for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Perennial Growth: As a bulb plant, it can return year after year under proper conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hyacinth bulbs can be used in a process called "forcing" for early indoor blooming during winter months, providing a touch of spring ahead of season.
- Pressed hyacinth flowers can be incorporated into handmade paper, adding texture and fragrance to personalized stationery or greeting cards.
- Hyacinth flowers can be used as natural dye for fabrics and yarns, yielding soft violet to pink shades depending on the mordant used.
- Dried hyacinth petals can serve as a component in potpourri, contributing a strong, sweet fragrance to the mix.
- Hyacinth petals can be used in crafting eco-friendly confetti, as an alternative to synthetic materials, for festive occasions.
- The strong scent of hyacinths can be infused into oils or waxes to create homemade candles or natural perfumes.
- With their vibrant colors, hyacinth flowers can be presented as edible decoration on desserts, though care must be taken to ensure they have not been treated with chemicals.
- Hyacinth blossoms can be crystallized with sugar and used as an elegant garnish for fine pastries and desserts.
- Harvested hyacinth flowers can be floated in decorative bowls of water as a simple yet elegant centerpiece.
- The cut stems of hyacinths can be used in creative floristry, such as forming the structural base for intricate flower arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe hyacinth is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe hyacinth is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rebirth: Hyacinth is a symbol of rebirth and is often associated with spring because it is one of the early flowers to bloom.
- Constancy: The flower’s perennial nature and regular blooming symbolize constancy and reliability.
- Beauty: The attractive and colorful appearance of hyacinths represents beauty and loveliness in the language of flowers.
- Games and Sports: In Greek mythology, the hyacinth is associated with the sun god Apollo and his lover Hyacinthus. The flowers sprouted from Hyacinthus’s blood when he died, and thus it is linked to games and sports in his honor.
- Sorrow or Apology: In some contexts, hyacinths can imply sorrow or an earnest apology, possibly originating from the myth of Hyacinthus and his tragic death.
- Jealousy: In the Victorian language of flowers, the hyacinth could sometimes convey a sense of jealousy or rivalry, likely stemming from the competitive nature of the myth of Hyacinthus and Apollo.
WaterFor the hyacinth 'Apricot Passion', water thoroughly when the topsoil feels dry to the touch, approximately every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions. During the growing season, ensure the plant receives about 1 gallon of water every two weeks, adjusting for rainfall or higher temperatures. During dormancy, after the blooming period, reduce watering frequency. Always avoid waterlogging by ensuring the pot has proper drainage, as hyacinths are sensitive to excessive moisture around their bulbs.
LightThe hyacinth 'Apricot Passion' thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It is best positioned in a spot where it can receive morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon to protect it from the intense sun. Avoiding direct, harsh sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, will prevent leaf scorch and ensure healthy growth.
TemperatureHyacinth 'Apricot Passion' prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, ideally between 60-75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 35°F during its dormant period but should not be exposed to freezing conditions. For optimal growth, maintain a consistent temperature and protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning hyacinth 'Apricot Passion' is mostly about deadheading spent flowers and removing old foliage. After blooming, cut back the flower stalks to prevent seed formation. Let the leaves die back naturally before removing them, as they help store energy in the bulb for the next season. The best time for pruning is when the leaves have yellowed and withered.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hyacinth 'Apricot Passion' should be well-draining with plenty of organic matter. Adding perlite or sand to a loam-based compost can improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.
RepottingHyacinths, including 'Apricot Passion', are usually grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Once planted, the bulbs can remain in the same pot for several years or until the pot becomes crowded.
Humidity & MistingHyacinth 'Apricot Passion' prefers moderate humidity levels. Typical indoor humidity is often suitable, but avoid placing in overly dry or excessively moist environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant bulbs in fall, sunny spot, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Hyacinth 'Apricot Passion' begins with a dormant bulb, which remains underground during the cool months. In early spring, the bulb awakens and produces a dense spike of fragrant, apricot-colored flowers, rising above strap-shaped green leaves. After blooming, the plant goes into a phase of photosynthesis and energy storage, during which the foliage continues to grow and gather energy. Following the flowering period, the leaves yellow and wither as the plant enters summer dormancy, retracting energy back into the bulb for the next season. The bulb then rests until the following spring, when the cycle restarts with the emergence of new blooms. To ensure the longevity of Hyacinth 'Apricot Passion', it is crucial to maintain proper care during growth and dormancy, including adequate watering, sunlight, and soil conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Hyacinth, particularly the 'Apricot Passion' variety, is most commonly propagated through bulb division, a process ideally undertaken in late summer or early fall. After the foliage has died back, the bulbs can be gently lifted from the soil using a shovel or a fork. The bulb clusters are then carefully separated into individual bulbs, making sure each one has a portion of the basal plate from which roots grow. These bulbs can be immediately replanted about 4 inches deep and spaced approximately 3 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. By the next spring, these newly planted bulbs will have established themselves and should produce the fragrant apricot blooms characteristic of the 'Apricot Passion' Hyacinth.
