Muscari armeniacum
Family
Asparagaceae
Origin
South Africa
Description
Grape hyacinths are small spring-blooming bulbs, so named because of the tight little flower clusters that resemble grapes. These plants are smaller and only get about 6 to 8 inches (16 to 20 cm.) high.
Grape hyacinth produces 1-3 flower stalks per bulb with 20-40 tightly packed florets. Each deep blue bell-shaped floret has a white band on the rim . The flowers open from the bottom up the inflorescence Each grape hyacinth flower looks like it has little beads all strung together up and down the stem of the plant. Most have a mildly sweet fragrance variously described as slightly grassy or grapey.
Environment
Grape hyacinths start from small fleshy little bulbs. They does best in full sun but tolerates part shade.
Plant the bulbs in the fall, placing bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep and 2 inches apart in any well-drained soil will produce good results. Grape hyacinths are most fond of somewhat sandy soil, but they do well in pretty much all but the soggiest soils. Hyacinths like a fair amount of moisture during the spring, but the soil should be allowed to dry out as the season progresses. This helps to prevent bulb rot issues.
Grape hyacinths require a cool winter period in order to bloom.
The plants benefit from bone meal applied at planting and after blooming. Reduce watering after the foliage begins to die back.
Landscape Use
Grape hyacinths are good for planting in rock gardens, in the front of beds and borders, or along walkways and paths.
