Hyacinthus x orientalis Fondant

The Hyacinthus orientalis or 'Fondant' Hyacinth, much like the delicious confectionery it is named after, is a treat for the eyes and nose. This highly fragrant variety produces clusters of waxy flowers that appear to be crafted from sugar, with a delicate and pure pink colour. It blooms early in the hyacinth season, starting in March, and seems to tolerate hot and dry climates better. Whether in the garden or indoors, this bulbous plant thrives in fertile and moist, yet well-drained soil. Its flowers last for 2 weeks in a vase!

Although the Oriental Hyacinth is not widely cultivated anymore, this species native to the Middle East and Mediterranean regions has given rise to countless highly regarded cultivars in gardens for their delightful spring flowering or in floristry for their forcing ability. This botanical species can be found naturalized in France in Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Alpes-Maritimes, and Lot-et-Garonne.

The 'Fondant' hyacinth, like its counterpart, belongs to the family of Hyacinthaceae, or Asparagaceae. It has a large ovate bulb and from spring onwards forms a clump of bright green ribbon-like leaves, from which a sturdy 20cm (8in) long flower stem emerges in April-May, bearing numerous star-shaped, diaphanous flowers with a thick, translucent substance. These flowers are pale pink with a candy pink midrib, tightly packed together and exuding a sweet fragrance. The foliage is deciduous in summer and reappears in late winter.

Among early bloomers, the hyacinth is one of the few bulbs with large flowers. Reserve a prominent spot for it in your garden, preferably near the entrance of your house to enjoy its fragrance with each passing. It will bring spectacular splashes of colour to your flower beds. Hyacinths can easily be paired with other early bulbs such as Chionodoxas or early Tulips. Forcing them indoors is a breeze: get a narrow-necked vase specifically designed for hyacinth bulbs. Fill it with water and place the bulb so that its base is just above the water level. Make sure the water level always reaches the base of the bulb, but never higher.

Their flowers are edible, raw or cooked, and have a slightly mucilaginous texture. Depending on your preferences, you can crystallize them with sugar or incorporate them into fruit salads. In the past, they were considered a delicacy and could be found under the name of 'candied hyacinths of Constantinople'.