Hyacinth, Houseplant of the month of December

To become Houseplant of the month during the festive month of December, you have to be something special. That is certainly true for the Hyacinth. A bulb, endless amount of flowers, a beautiful scent and a dramatic story: the Hyacinth has it all.

Give your nose a treat

Many people are aware of the Hyacinth’s scent. The houseplant definitely gives your nose a treat, but is also a feast for your eyes with its curly flowers. These flowers come in white, blue, yellow, pink, orange, red and purple. The plant bulb, where the plant grows out of, also has a decorative quality.

Turkey, Lebanon and a Greek myth

The Hyacinth originates from the area between the centrre of Turkey, down to Lebanon. According to the lovely myth, the Hyacinth was named after prince Hyakinthos. The sun god, Apollo was in love with this prince, but during a discus throwing event, Hyakinthos was mortally wounded. Out of his blood grew a Hyacinth.

Caring for the Hyacinth

It makes sense to keep the bulb as part of the plant as it is not only attractive but ensures that the Hyacinth lasts longer. It’s best to put the plant is in a light position and give it water once a week. Don’t place the Hyacinth near a heater or a draught, as it won’t like this very much.

Fun facts:

Up to 40 flowers can grow on a Hyacinth.
‘Apollo et Hyacinthus’ is a Mozart opera and the first performance was in Salzburg on the 13^th May 1767.
Hyacinths also look great in your garden or on your balcony. Hyacinths flower outdoors in the ground from March to May, but you can enjoy them outdoors even earlier! Potted bulbs can be put on your balcony or patio from January onwards.
The German, Leonhardt Rauwolf, started to collect Hyacinths in 1573 in Turkey and later introduced the plant into Europe.
Did you know that Hyacinths are related to the asparagus?
In the wild, Hyacinths attract many bees with their scented flowers.
In the Victorian floral language, the Hyacinth was a symbol of sport and games. The blue Hyacinth symbolises integrity.

For more information see: www.thejoyofplants.co.uk

Published on: 26 November 2015