Flower Library
Hyacinths
Hyacinthus orientalis · Asparagaceae
Hyacinths mark the end of winter like few other flowers. Their dense flower clusters on short stems are intensely sweet-scented — some love it, others can't stand it. Available as cut flowers and as potted bulbs.
- Season
- January – February – March – April
- Vase life
- 5–10 days
- Latin name
- Hyacinthus orientalis
- Colors
- Blue, Purple, Pink, White, Apricot, Yellow
Season January to April. Main stock: potted bulb plant for February/March. Cut hyacinths less common in retail, but popular in wedding ranges.
Scent is polarising: in small rooms or bedrooms often too intense. In large hallways or living rooms perfect. With scent-sensitive customers always ask first.
The stem is special: thick, fleshy, releases sticky sap. Vase water clouds faster than other varieties — change more often.
Potted hyacinth after blooming: plant the bulb in the garden, blooms again next spring outdoors.
Is Hyacinths toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Toxic
- Cats
- Toxic
- Dogs
- Toxic
Toxic to cats and dogs. The bulb in particular contains calcium oxalate crystals and alkaloids (lycorine-like) and can cause intense vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and tremors. Keep bulbs and cut flowers out of pets' reach.
Typical symptoms: Intense vomiting, diarrhoea, increased drooling and tremors, especially after eating the bulb.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut stem at an angle, wipe sticky sap with cloth.
- 02Change water every 1–2 days (hyacinth sap clouds it fast).
- 03Keep cool, no heater spot.
- 04Potted hyacinth: bright, moderate watering, after blooming plant the bulb in the garden.
- 05Caution: plant sap causes skin irritation in some — wear gloves when cutting.
Frequently asked
- Are hyacinths suitable for bedrooms?
- Not ideal — intense scent can trigger headaches and disturb sleep. Better in hallway, dining room or living room.
- How long does a potted hyacinth last?
- 3–4 weeks with good care. Then the bulb can live on in the garden and bloom again next year.
- Are hyacinths toxic to pets?
- Yes — especially the bulb is toxic to dogs and cats. Keep out of pet reach or avoid in pet households.