Hyacinthus orientalis

Hyacinthus orientalis, commonly known as the hyacinth, is a small genus of bulbous herbs native to the Mediterranean region and tropical Africa. These plants are popular spring ornamentals, with the common garden hyacinths derived from Hyacinthus orientalis.1

Key characteristics include:
* Leaves: Typically four to six narrow, untoothed leaves emerge from the underground bulb.1
* Bulbs: The bulbs are inedible and contain oxalic acid, which can cause skin irritation.1
* Flowers: Intensely fragrant flowers are usually blue, but cultivated varieties can also be pink, white, or other colors. They grow in a raceme cluster at the top of leafless stems.1

The term "hyacinth" can also refer to a precious stone of the ancients, a gem zircon or hessonite, or a light violet to moderate purple color.2