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focal · moderate · mid

Hyacinth

Hyacinthus orientalis · aka Dutch hyacinth

The hyacinth is the fragrance flower of early spring — a densely packed spire of florets that perfumes a room within minutes. Grown almost exclusively in the Netherlands for the global cut trade. The stem-sap causes contact dermatitis in some people; wear gloves when conditioning.

At a glance
FamilyAsparagaceae
OriginEastern Mediterranean; commercially grown Netherlands
Peak seasonJanuary, February, March, April
AvailabilityDecember to April
Stem length25–40 cm
Vase life5–10 days
Colorswhite, blush, pink, coral, red, purple, blue, yellow
Price tiermid
Conditioning

Cut on a diagonal, cool fresh water.

Where flowers grow
Care in the vase
  • Legendary fragrance — one of the most powerful spring scents
  • Densely packed florets on a short stalk
  • Skin irritation from sap in some people — wear gloves at conditioning
  • Bulb-in-vase variants extend the display
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismsport, play, constancy, rashness
Occasionsspring wedding, editorial, hotel arrangement, cultural celebrations
Substitutesmuscari, lilac
springfragrantweddingeditorial
Colors
White Flowers
Varieties5

5 named hyacinth cultivars from the Lacy Bird master catalogue — each a distinct commercial variety.

✦ Acanta catalog

Entries marked ✦ come from the Acanta master catalogue — the shared database of cut flowers, forms, colours and named varieties that florists and studios build on. The rest are our editorial genus reference. What is Acanta →

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Frequently asked questions

When is Hyacinth in season?

Hyacinth peaks in January, February, March, April, and florists can usually source it December to April. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.

How long does Hyacinth last in a vase?

Expect 5–10 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.

What can I use instead of Hyacinth?

Good substitutes for Hyacinth include Grape hyacinth, Lilac. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.

What does Hyacinth symbolise?

Hyacinth is associated with sport, play, constancy, rashness.

How do you care for cut Hyacinth?

Legendary fragrance — one of the most powerful spring scents

Related flowers

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