Hyacinthus Fragrant Baby Blue is a delightful classic, known for its enchanting fragrance and striking blue blooms. When planted in the fall, these compact hyacinth bulbs burst into life in the spring, producing large flower spikes densely packed with hundreds of star-shaped, sky-blue florets. Each flower spike rises to a height of 8 to 12 inches on sturdy stems, nestled among a cluster of thick, strappy leaves. The powerful, sweet fragrance of these flowers is a magnet for gardeners and pollinators, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies from all around.
As a member of the Hyacinthus orientalis family, commonly known as hyacinths, Fragrant Baby Blue offers a perfect combination of beauty and ease of care. This bedding-size plant has an upright habit, so it stands tall without the need for staking. These hyacinths are best planted in clusters or masses, whether in the garden or in containers, where their intense fragrance can be fully appreciated. Outdoors, hyacinths will typically reappear for several years under ideal conditions, although they may gradually decline over time. For those who wish to enjoy their beauty indoors, the bulbs can also be forced in soil or water, providing a delightful indoor display during the colder months.
Fragrant Baby Blue hyacinths are cold-hardy to USDA Zone 4, making them a reliable choice for cooler climates. These bulbs thrive in sunny to partially shady locations with organically rich, medium-moist, fast-draining soil that has a neutral to slightly acidic pH. To ensure successful growth, plant the bulbs 4 to 8 inches apart and 4 to 6 inches deep, providing ample space for each bulb to develop. Keep the bulbs well-watered during the growing season, and consider mulching them for added winter protection.
After the blooms have faded, it's important to remove the spent flowers promptly to encourage the plant to focus its energy on the bulbs. However, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as the leaves will continue to photosynthesize, storing energy that will support the next season's growth and blooming. Once the leaves have fully withered, they can be removed to keep your garden or containers tidy. Fragrant Baby Blue hyacinths are also deer-resistant, making them a low-maintenance and dependable addition to any garden.
For the most prolific blooms, fertilize bulbs when growth appears in spring. We like Espoma Organic® Bulb-tone® Bulb and Flower Food because it's safe for beneficial insects.
