Hyacinth Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago'
ABOUT
Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago', commonly known as hyacinth, is a striking flowering plant with a distinctive appearance. This particular variety is appreciated for its vibrant floral display. The plant produces dense spikes of star-shaped flowers closely arranged around a sturdy, central stalk. The blooms come in a rich hue that can be described as a soft, enchanting shade, reminiscent of the early spring palette. The flowers possess a texture that appears both lush and waxy, with each individual floret contributing to the overall cone-like shape of the bloom cluster. These clusters emerge from a base of green, strap-like leaves that are glossy and have a slightly fleshy quality. The leaves typically form a neat, linear arrangement and provide a contrasting background that accentuates the beauty of the floral spikes. One of the most notable characteristics of hyacinth 'Chicago' is its scent. The flowers produce a powerful fragrance that is sweet and penetrating, often associated with the essence of spring. This attribute makes the plant particularly enjoyable for gardeners and passersby alike who value aromatic blooms. The hyacinth 'Chicago' exudes a sense of classic charm and is often used in formal garden designs, as well as in containers where its delightful scent can be appreciated up close. Its strong visual and olfactory presence make it a popular choice for those seeking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Common Hyacinth, Garden Hyacinth, Dutch Hyacinth
Common names
Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago'.
ToxicityTo humans
Hyacinth, including the variety Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago', 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 ingestion can include intense stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the skin can also cause irritation, rashes, or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. In severe cases, if large quantities are eaten, it may result in more serious effects such as tremors or convulsions, though this is rare. It is advisable to seek medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Hyacinth is also toxic to pets including dogs and cats. Similar to its effects on humans, ingestion of any part of the plant can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, increased drooling, and abdominal pain. The bulbs are particularly toxic and can result in respiratory distress, an increase in heart rate, and even changes in blood pressure. If a pet ingests hyacinth, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately as the consequences can be severe, especially if left untreated.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
0.5-1.5 feet (15-45 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Hyacinth 'Chicago' offers striking purple flowers that can enhance the beauty of gardens and indoor settings.
- Fragrance: This plant is known for its strong and pleasant fragrance, which can freshen up any space.
- Easy to Grow: Hyacinths, including the 'Chicago' variety, are relatively easy to cultivate both in pots and in the ground.
- Spring Blooming: As a spring-blooming plant, it provides early-season color when many other plants have yet to start growing.
- Attracts Pollinators: Hyacinths can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Compact Growth: The plant's compact size makes it suitable for small gardens or as part of a mixed border.
- Forced Blooms: Hyacinth 'Chicago' can be forced to bloom early indoors, allowing for a burst of spring color even in winter.
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' to bloom indoors during winter, bringing early spring colors and fragrances inside when it is still cold and dreary outside.
- The dried, crushed bulbs of hyacinths can serve as a starchy base for a natural glue or paste, used in traditional bookbinding and crafts.
- The strong fragrance of hyacinth blooms are used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and stress relief when their scent is inhaled.
- In some cultures, hyacinth flowers are used during special ceremonies or festivals as table decorations for their beauty and pleasant aroma.
- Hyacinth flowers can be used to create a colorful and fragrant dye for fabrics, although this is not a common practice.
- The petals of blue and purple hyacinths have historically been used to create a litmus-like substance for rudimentary pH testing.
- Due to their symmetrical shape, hyacinth flowers make for useful subject matter in art and photography classes to teach composition and color theory.
- Hyacinth flowers can be pressed and incorporated into handmade paper, providing texture and a natural scent to the final product.
- When dried, hyacinth petals can be used as part of the natural material in potpourri mixes, contributing to the fragrance and color palette.
- The structure of hyacinth flowers is studied in botany and horticulture education for its typical monocotyledon characteristics and bulb growth patterns.
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: The Hyacinth, particularly in its role in Greek mythology where it's linked to the rebirth of a young boy, symbolizes renewal and the arrival of spring.
- Constancy: In the language of flowers, Hyacinths represent constancy and the desire for the beloved to remain faithful.
- Beauty: The striking beauty of its blooms and sweet scent has long associated Hyacinths with notions of natural beauty and attractiveness.
- Sport or Play: The name "Hyacinth" can be traced back to the Greek myth of Hyakinthos, a divine hero associated with sports and games, leading to this association.
- Sorrow: The Hyacinth is also sometimes a symbol of sorrow and lament, as it sprang from the blood of the slain Hyakinthos in mythology.
- Jealousy: In the Victorian era, flowers were used to convey complex emotions, and the Hyacinth was sometimes employed to signify jealousy.
WaterHyacinth, specifically Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago', should be watered moderately, ensuring the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the active growth period, which is typically in the spring, it's advised to water the plant once a week with about 16 ounces of water. As the bloom begins to fade, reduce watering to help encourage the bulbs to go dormant. Over-watering can lead to bulb rot, so it’s essential to ensure proper drainage. It's important not to splash water on the leaves or flowers, as this can promote disease.
LightHyacinth thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. The ideal spot for the plant is one where it can receive full to partial sunlight for a minimum of six hours a day—such as near a south or west-facing window. However, avoid placing it in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods as this can scorch the delicate blooms. During the growing season, make sure it's located in a well-lit area to encourage robust flowering.
TemperatureHyacinth prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures as low as 50°F but should be protected from cold drafts and not exposed to temperatures below freezing as it could harm the plant. After flowering, a cooler period of 45°F to 55°F can help the bulbs enter dormancy properly.
PruningPruning a Hyacinth mainly involves deadheading and removing spent blooms to promote plant health and redirect energy to the bulb. After flowering, cut the flower stalk back to the leaves to discourage seed formation. Pruning is usually done once flowering has ended in the late spring or early summer. Regular deadheading also keeps the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis 'Chicago') is well-draining, fertile loam with good organic content. A mix of two parts loam, one part river sand, and one part compost is ideal. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingHyacinth bulbs should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they become crowded in their current container. The best time to repot Hyacinths is after the foliage has died back post-flowering.
Humidity & MistingHyacinth prefers moderate humidity levels. Average room humidity is generally suitable, but it is beneficial to maintain humidity levels around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Hyacinth in bright, indirect light and keep in cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant Hyacinth bulbs in autumn in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleHyacinth 'Chicago', a bulbous perennial, begins its life cycle as a dormant bulb which, when planted in the fall, develops roots and may initiate some leaf growth. As temperatures warm in early spring, the bulb sends up a flowering stalk alongside strap-shaped leaves, culminating in a showy, fragrant spike of flowers. After blooming, the flowers fade and the plant directs energy back into the bulb for the next season. The leaves will eventually yellow and die back as the plant enters summer dormancy. Throughout the summer, the bulb lies dormant underground until the cooler temperatures of autumn signal the approach of the next growing season. With appropriate care and ideal conditions, the plant's life cycle continues year after year, often producing offsets or "daughter bulbs" that can be separated to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to fall
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Hyacinth, specifically the 'Chicago' variety, is through bulb division, which is typically done in the fall after the foliage has died back. Once the bulbs have been lifted from the ground, the offsets, which are small bulblets that form at the base of the parent bulb, can be gently removed. These offsets can be replanted immediately; however, it's often recommended to store them in a cool, dry place for a few weeks allowing the base to callus over which helps prevent rot. Planted at a depth of approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in well-drained soil and spaced 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) apart, the offsets will develop roots in the autumn, establish over the winter, and bloom the following spring.
