Hyacinthus orientalis 'Delft Blue' is a classic spring-flowering hyacinth producing dense spikes of soft porcelain-blue flowers above glossy green foliage. Highly fragrant and beautifully coloured, it is an excellent bulb for spring borders, patio containers and planting close to paths or doorways where its rich perfume can be appreciated.
Growing to around 25-30cm tall, 'Delft Blue' forms substantial, spike-like clusters packed with individual star-shaped flowers. Its clear mid-blue colouring works particularly well alongside white, yellow and pale pink spring bulbs, while a group planted on its own creates a strong block of blue colour.
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Botanical name: Hyacinthus orientalis 'Delft Blue'
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Common name: Hyacinth 'Delft Blue'
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Plant type: Hardy spring-flowering bulb
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Flower colour: Soft porcelain blue
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Flowering time: Spring
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Height: Approximately 25-30cm
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Spread: Approximately 10-15cm
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Fragrance: Highly fragrant
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Position: Full sun or partial shade
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Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
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Ideal for: Borders, containers, patio pots and cut flowers
About Hyacinthus 'Delft Blue'
'Delft Blue' is one of the best-known blue hyacinths and has long been valued for the combination of its strong fragrance and beautiful colouring. The flowers open in shades of soft mid-blue to porcelain blue and are densely arranged around sturdy upright stems.
Broad, glossy green leaves form around the base of each flower spike, creating a neat and compact plant. Its modest height makes it easy to use near the front of mixed borders or in pots where the flowers can be enjoyed at close range.
Fragrant Porcelain-Blue Flowers
The individual flowers have the familiar waxy, star-like form of a traditional hyacinth. Together they form a dense cylindrical raceme with a substantial appearance despite the plant's compact size.
The fragrance is one of the main attractions. Plant several bulbs together and their perfume can carry across a patio or along a garden path on mild spring days.
Where to Plant Delft Blue Hyacinths
Grow 'Delft Blue' in full sun or partial shade in fertile soil with good drainage. Avoid areas that remain waterlogged during winter, as prolonged wet conditions can damage dormant bulbs.
It combines particularly well with tulips, narcissi, muscari and other spring bulbs. For a stronger display, plant bulbs in informal groups rather than scattering individual plants widely through the border.
How to Plant Hyacinth Bulbs
Plant the bulbs in autumn with the pointed growing tip facing upwards. Set them approximately 10-15cm deep and space them around 10-15cm apart.
For container displays, bulbs can be planted more closely together, provided they are not touching. Use a free-draining compost and make sure the container has adequate drainage holes.
Height and Spread
Hyacinthus orientalis 'Delft Blue' grows to approximately 25-30cm tall and around 10-15cm wide. Its compact habit makes it suitable even for relatively small gardens and containers.
After Flowering
Once the flowers fade, remove the spent flower spike if desired but leave the foliage in place. The leaves continue feeding the bulb and should be allowed to yellow and die back naturally.
In suitable well-drained soil, bulbs can remain in the ground and return in following years. The flower spikes may become slightly less dense with age, but established plants can continue providing useful spring colour and fragrance.
Excellent for Cut Flowers
The sturdy stems and richly scented blooms also make 'Delft Blue' a useful cut flower. Cut stems as the lower flowers begin opening and place them promptly into fresh water. Even one or two stems can provide plenty of fragrance indoors.
Why Grow Hyacinthus 'Delft Blue'?
- Beautiful soft porcelain-blue flowers
- Strong traditional hyacinth fragrance
- Compact height of around 25-30cm
- Spread of approximately 10-15cm
- Excellent for borders and containers
- Combines easily with other spring bulbs
- Makes an attractive and fragrant cut flower
- Can return year after year in suitable conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall does Hyacinthus 'Delft Blue' grow?
It typically reaches approximately 25-30cm tall when flowering.
What is the spread of 'Delft Blue'?
Individual plants have a spread of approximately 10-15cm.
Is Hyacinth 'Delft Blue' scented?
Yes. It produces strongly fragrant flowers with the classic sweet perfume associated with hyacinths.
Can I grow 'Delft Blue' in pots?
Yes. It is particularly well suited to patio pots and containers. Use free-draining compost and position the container in sun or partial shade.
Is this the same as prepared 'Delft Blue' for Christmas flowering?
No. These are standard Hyacinthus orientalis 'Delft Blue' bulbs intended for normal spring flowering. Prepared bulbs receive special temperature treatment so they can be forced into flower around Christmas and New Year.
Can the bulbs stay in the ground?
Yes. In fertile, well-drained soil they can be left in place after flowering. Allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it.
With its soft porcelain-blue flowers, wonderful fragrance and compact habit, Hyacinthus orientalis 'Delft Blue' is a classic spring bulb for bringing both colour and scent to borders and containers.
