Hyacinthus orientalis 'Aiolos'

Intensely fragrant, star-shaped florets of purest white crowd the fresh green stems of Hyacinthus orientalis 'Aiolos,' adding classic beauty and sweet perfume to the spring garden. 'Aiolos' is named for the goddess of the wind, and she sails through spring tempests that might topple some of her friends.

The genus Hyacinthus, once classified in the Lily family, is now a member of the Asparagus family. Hyacinthus includes three species of spring-blooming perennial bulbs native to the eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, and northern Africa, of which Hyacinthus orientalis is the well-loved Common Garden Hyacinth. Prized for their vibrant colors and intensely fragrant flowers, they have been bred for centuries to increase flower size, abundance, and range of color—while retaining their rich, unmistakable perfume. Their dense spikes of tubular, star-shaped flowers are borne on upright stems and are best planted in informal groups (verus being lined up like soldiers), where they combine well with Pansies, Sweet Alyssum, and Tulips, or can be tucked among emerging perennials in the garden. Hyacinths perform best in full sun and in rich, well-drained soil that remains warm and dry during summer dormancy. They are also well suited to containers for patios, balconies, and entryways, and are excellent for forcing indoors.

For more information on growing Hyacinth, click Growing Guide.