Hyacinth Hyacinthus orientalis 'China Pink'
ABOUT
The Hyacinth 'China Pink' is a striking and fragrant flowering plant. It is characterized by its dense spikes of soft pink flowers that cluster along the upper portion of the stalks, creating a bold and beautiful display. Each individual flower is bell-shaped, with a slightly recurved edge, and they are tightly packed to form the cone-shaped bloom. The blooms give off a rich, sweet scent that is highly esteemed in the gardening world. The rich green, strap-like leaves of the 'China Pink' hyacinth grow in a basal arrangement, meaning they emerge from the base of the plant and typically surround the stem. The leaves are glossy, providing an attractive backdrop that contrasts with the soft pink hue of the flowers. This plant is commonly known for its aesthetic appeal and is often used in gardens and floral arrangements to add a splash of color and fragrance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Common Hyacinth, Garden Hyacinth, Dutch Hyacinth.
Common names
Hyacinthus orientalis 'China Pink'.
ToxicityTo humans
Hyacinth, including the 'China Pink' variety, contains compounds that can be poisonous to humans if ingested or handled improperly. The plant consists of alkaloids such as hyacinthine and potentially irritating calcium oxalate crystals. If any part of the plant is eaten, it may cause severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Skin contact with the bulb, especially when handling them repeatedly or with any cuts on the skin, can cause dermatitis. It is important to wear gloves when planting or handling hyacinth bulbs to prevent skin irritation.
To pets
Hyacinth, including the 'China Pink' variety, is toxic to pets if ingested. The bulbs are the most poisonous part, but all parts of the plant contain the harmful compounds, including alkaloids like hyacinthine. If pets consume any part of the hyacinth, they may experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression, abdominal pain, and even tremors or seizures. Pet owners should prevent animals from having access to hyacinths in the garden or in the home to avoid the risk of poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant pink color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: Emits a strong, sweet fragrance that can perfume the surrounding area.
- Spring Bloomer: Signifies the arrival of spring with its early blooming period.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots, making it versatile for patios and balconies.
- Easy to Grow: Requires minimal maintenance and is generally easy to cultivate.
- Cut Flowers: Sturdy stems and long vase life make them ideal for floral arrangements.
- Compact Size: Fits well in small gardens or spaces without overwhelming them.
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 as a natural adhesive; the sticky juice can be used to bind items together or as a natural bookbinding glue.
- The flowers of the Hyacinth can be crushed to make a fragrant dye for fabrics, offering a natural coloring option.
- Hyacinth flowers can be infused into oils to create perfumed oils used in aromatherapy or as a personal fragrance.
- Dried Hyacinth petals can be included in potpourri mixes for a pleasant scent within homes.
- These flowers may be used as a natural pest repellent; when planted in gardens, they can deter certain animals such as deer.
- Mixed with other botanical ingredients, Hyacinth flowers can serve as a natural dye for Easter eggs.
- Hyacinth plants can be pressed and incorporated into paper making for decorative paper with floral inclusions.
- The dense flower clusters may be used for crafting flower crowns or decorative table centerpieces for spring-themed events.
- Dried Hyacinth blooms can be included in homemade soaps for exfoliation and fragrance.
- The sturdy stem of the Hyacinth can be utilized as a natural support for other weaker-stemmed plants in the garden.
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 commonly symbolizes rebirth and is often associated with spring because it is one of the early flowers to bloom.
- Beauty: With its attractive flowers and pleasing scent, the hyacinth often represents beauty and charm.
- Playfulness: Due to its variety of colors and lush blooms, the hyacinth can signify playfulness and a sense of joy.
- Constancy: The recurring blooming of hyacinths can also be a symbol of constancy or fidelity.
- Sorrow & Apology: In some contexts, hyacinths can express sorrow or be given as an apology, possibly due to the Greek myth of Hyacinthus, a young man who was mourned by the god Apollo.
WaterHyacinth 'China Pink' should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this may mean watering approximately once a week, depending on the environmental conditions. Use about half a gallon of water per plant for each watering session, ensuring that the water penetrates the soil well without leaving the plant in standing water. During the active growth period in the spring, they may require more frequent watering. Cut back on watering once the flowers begin to die back, and allow the soil to dry out more between waterings.
LightHyacinth 'China Pink' thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, a south-facing window may be the best location, while outdoors they should be planted in a spot that is sunny for most of the day but may be lightly shaded during the hottest part of the afternoon.
TemperatureHyacinth 'China Pink' prefers a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F during their growing season. They can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 25°F, making them suitable for many outdoor environments. Ideally, provide a cooler period of around 40°F to 45°F after blooming to encourage dormancy and prepare the bulbs for the next growing season.
PruningPruning Hyacinth 'China Pink' primarily involves removing spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to the bulb. This encourages better growth for the next year. Pruning should be done once the flowers have faded, typically towards the end of spring. Avoid cutting back the foliage until it has died back naturally, as the leaves need time to gather energy for next season's growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Hyacinth 'China Pink' is a well-draining, fertile loam or sandy loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It should be rich in organic matter like compost to provide nutrients.
RepottingHyacinths, including 'China Pink', typically do not need to be repotted often as they are usually grown as annuals. However, if growing them as perennials, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingHyacinth 'China Pink' prefers moderate humidity levels but is tolerant of typical indoor humidity conditions. Avoid excessively dry or damp air to maintain plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Hyacinth 'China Pink' near a sunny window and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleHyacinth 'China Pink' begins its life as a bulb, planted in the fall before the first frost. Once temperatures warm in spring, the bulb sends up a shoot, eventually producing a dense spike of fragrant, pink flowers. After blooming, the flowers wilt, and the plant focuses energy on replenishing the bulb for the next season. The leaves remain for a period, conducting photosynthesis, and then die back as the plant enters summer dormancy. In this dormant stage, the bulb rests underground until the following spring. Every few years, offsets (small daughter bulbs) may form, which can be separated from the parent bulb to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Hyacinth, specifically the 'China Pink' variety, generally involves the division of its bulbs. The best time to propagate Hyacinths by bulb division is after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer. Carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the small offset bulbs, which are clones of the mother plant, from the base of the larger bulb. These offsets can be replanted immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until the fall planting season. When planting, ensure the bulbs are set approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep and spaced around 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil with access to full or partial sun.
