Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty'
ABOUT
The hyacinth generally known as Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty' boasts a striking appearance characterized by its vibrant and richly colored blooms. This variety typically showcases tightly packed clusters of star-shaped flowers. Each individual floret blossoms along a dense, upright spike, presenting a lush and opulent look. The petals exhibit mostly full, deep colors, which can range from soft pastels to more intense and deeper shades, giving a lavish visual impact. The foliage of the 'Dynasty' hyacinth forms a neat, glossy green base that cradles the floral spike. The leaves are strap-shaped, providing a contrasting backdrop that accentuates the brilliance and structure of the flowering spire. The visual allure of this plant is further enhanced during its flowering season when the blooms release a delightful and potent fragrance, filling the surrounding area with a sweet, enchanting scent. The overall form of the hyacinth 'Dynasty' is dense and compact, contributing to its popularity as a favorite for garden beds, borders, and containers where it adds a burst of color and fragrance. Its thick, fleshy roots support the robust bloom display, and though small, they sustain the plant efficiently, showcasing the fact that size does not diminish the impact of this plant's captivating presence. The hyacinth 'Dynasty' brings a traditional and stately elegance to any setting, with its exquisite blooms and perfume creating a focal point that is both visually and olfactorily pleasing.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Common Hyacinth, Garden Hyacinth, Dutch Hyacinth
Common names
Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty'.
ToxicityTo humans
Commonly known as the hyacinth, the plant Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty' contains oxalic acid and other potentially toxic compounds. If ingested by humans, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing or an irregular heartbeat. Skin contact with its sap may also result in allergic reactions or dermatitis.
To pets
In pets, the hyacinth is toxic if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and can potentially lead to depression of the central nervous system. In severe cases, ingestion of the bulb, which is the most toxic part, may result in more serious symptoms such as tremors or an increase in heart rate.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Adding Color to Gardens: The plant, commonly known as hyacinth, blooms in vibrant colors that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden space.
- Fragrance: Hyacinths are well-known for their strong and pleasant fragrance, which can perfume the surrounding air, especially in spring when they typically bloom.
- Attracting Pollinators: Hyacinths can attract bees and other pollinators to your garden, which is beneficial for the pollination of other plants.
- Easy to Grow: Hyacinths are relatively easy to cultivate, making them a good choice for novice gardeners or those who prefer low-maintenance plants.
- Container Gardening: They can be grown in pots or containers, making them a versatile option for people with limited garden space or those wanting to decorate patios and balconies.
- Forcing Blooms Indoors: Hyacinths can be 'forced' to bloom indoors during the winter months, providing a touch of spring during colder weather and brightening indoor spaces with their color and scent.
- Symbolism and Gifting: With its enchanting fragrance and beauty, the hyacinth is often associated with peace and commitment, making it a thoughtful gift for various occasions.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of the Hyacinth can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from soft lilacs to deeper purple hues.
- In perfumery: Hyacinth essential oil is sometimes used in perfumery for its intense floral fragrance, which can add depth to perfume blends.
- As a symbolism in art: Hyacinths are often depicted in paintings and literature to symbolize peace, commitment, or sorrow, thus serving as an artistic motif.
- In educational botany: Hyacinth plants can be used in schools to teach students about bulbous plant growth cycles and plant reproduction.
- For festive decorations: The bright flowers of the Hyacinth can be incorporated into holiday arrangements or wreaths for events such as Easter.
- In culinary presentations: Although not edible, Hyacinth flowers can be used as non-toxic decorative garnishes to embellish food presentations.
- As a scent for homemade candles: The fragrance of Hyacinths can be captured in candle making, to create a floral-scented ambiance within the home.
- As an inspiration in design: Hyacinth's shape and colors can inspire designs in fields like fashion, textiles, or interior décor.
- In weddings: Hyacinths may serve as a popular choice for spring wedding bouquets or decorations due to their vibrant colors and fresh fragrance.
- In potpourri: Dried Hyacinth petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to impart a lasting floral scent in drawers and closets.
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 and renewal: Hyacinths, including the Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty' variety, commonly symbolize rebirth due to their association with spring when they bloom vigorously.
- Constancy and sincerity: The enduring nature of the hyacinth's fragrance and its upright growth represent steadfastness and genuine feelings.
- Beauty: The hyacinth's vibrant flowers and appealing scent have made it emblematic of beauty and loveliness.
- Sport or play: The name hyacinth is tied to the Greek myth of Hyakinthos, a young man beloved by Apollo, who was killed accidentally, making the flower a symbol of sportive play.
- Jealousy: In some cultural contexts, the hyacinth can symbolize jealousy and fervor, particularly the purple variety.
- Sorrow: The myth associated with its origin also lends the hyacinth an association with sorrow and the lament for a lost one.
- Peace: The soothing scent and aesthetics of the hyacinth often convey a sense of tranquility and peace.
WaterHyacinth bulbs require consistent moisture while they are actively growing and flowering, so water the Dynasty hyacinth when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this might mean watering once a week, but it's essential to adjust depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. Provide about 1-2 gallons of water per square yard every week during the growing season, decreasing frequency once the leaves start yellowing after blooming, as the plant is entering dormancy. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting water on the leaves and flowers, which can promote fungal diseases. During the dormancy period in summer, particularly if planted in the ground, additional watering may not be necessary unless there's a prolonged dry spell.
LightDynasty hyacinths thrive best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for these plants is where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, place them near a south-facing window for ample light. Be mindful of providing some dappled shade in the afternoon in very hot regions to prevent scorching the leaves and flowers.
TemperatureThe Dynasty hyacinth prefers a temperate climate with springtime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F for the best growth and flower development. They can handle slightly colder nights but should not be exposed to temperatures below 25°F, which can damage the plant. During the growing season, they are best kept in conditions that don't exceed 75°F to avoid premature wilting of the flowers.
PruningPruning Dynasty hyacinths involves deadheading the spent blooms after flowering to prevent the plant from setting seed, which diverts energy away from the bulb. Cut the flower stalks back to the base but leave the foliage intact to allow it to continue photosynthesis and feed the bulb for next year's growth. Prune only when the flowers are spent, and the leaves turn yellow and die back, typically once a year in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Hyacinth, the best soil mix is well-draining with plenty of organic matter, such as a mix of loam, sand, and peat. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingHyacinths, including the 'Dynasty' variety, are typically grown from bulbs and do not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years or when the bulbs outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingHyacinths prefer average home humidity levels ranging from 40% to 70%. They are not particularly demanding in terms of humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant in well-draining soil, provide bright, indirect light.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the common hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty') begins as a bulb, which starts to sprout when exposed to cool temperatures and sufficient moisture, typically in autumn or early winter. The growth stage follows, characterized by the emergence of linear leaves and a central stalk that bears dense clusters of fragrant flowers in the spring. After blossoming, the plant enters a period of pollination, often facilitated by insects like bees, which is essential for the development of seeds. Post-flowering, the plant enters the senescence stage where the leaves and flowers wilt and die back, allowing the bulb to enter into a dormant phase during the hot summer months. In this rest period, the bulb conserves energy before the cycle begins again with the next appropriate season. Yearly, bulbs can be dug up, divided, and replanted to propagate the plant and maintain vigorous growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method for propagating Hyacinth or Hyacinthus orientalis 'Dynasty' is by using offsets, also known as "daughter bulbs." These bulbs form around the base of the parent plant, and the best time to propagate hyacinths using offsets is late summer, after the leaves have died back, but before the ground becomes too hard. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the offsets from the parent bulb. Replant the offsets immediately at a depth of approximately 6 inches (15 cm), spaced 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) apart, in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Water the newly planted offsets to help establish them. This bulb division encourages the growth of new hyacinth plants that will bloom in the following spring.
