Prized as an ornamental garden plant, the hyacinth flower (Hyacinthus orientalis) can also be grown as an indoor houseplant. It is also frequently given in a bouquet, as a gift. It looks absolutely lovely while sitting in a vase and adorning your home, but you might be wondering what other hyacinth meaning or two this plant hides.
A member of the asparagus family, you might be surprised at the etymological meaning and cultural significance of hyacinth flowers. The meaning and symbolism of hyacinth flowers is deeper than you might think!
Planted in the fall, hyacinth bulbs are strong, vigorously-growing plants that have some powerful symbolism in our everyday lives. Plants in the hyacinth genus are easy to grow and were once prized for their health benefits in ancient Greek mythology, eastern Mediterranean cultures, Victorian England, and many other places.
Let’s take a closer look at the many different meanings of true hyacinths.
What Does the Hyacinth Flower Symbolize?
Every flower has its own special meaning, and hyacinth flowers are no exception. With its gorgeous appearance and intoxicating scent, you might assume that the flowers of the hyacinth plant are beautiful flowers to give your beloved as a token of your affection.
Not so fast! These plants are known as a symbol of jealousy, so you might want to stay clear of this flower. Hyacinth flower meaning is complicated even though the origins of this symbol are unknown. You should be careful about gifting yellow flowers in particular – it can indicate that you are jealous of someone’s success.
However, hyacinths can also be used to symbolize sorrow or sincerity, making them a good choice in funeral arrangements. Ancient Victorians also considered the hyacinth to be a symbol of sporting activities, so they may be useful as a celebratory bouquet in that setting, too. In general, the hyacinth isn’t the most popular cut flower. Let’s take a look at a few of the colors of the hyacinth varieties.
What Does Blue Hyacinth Mean?
Similar to many blue flowering plants, blue hyacinth flower color is said to represent constancy and sincerity. Whether you’re looking at royal blue or light blue hyacinth, these flowers can symbolize a fresh start and many other different meanings.
Purple hyacinths are generally used to symbolize royalty and spirituality. The purple hyacinth meaning is not unlike what purple means in most flowers across the board.
Because hyacinths can also symbolize sorrow and occasionally forgiveness, a purple hyacinth is a good flower to give someone who not only deserves your respect but your gratitude, too.
What Do White Hyacinths Symbolize?
White hyacinths represent innocence and purity. It also has religious connotations, which makes sense when you consider that giving someone a white hyacinth means that you are praying for them.
The white hyacinth flower has perhaps the simplest color meaning. Like most flowers that are white, it symbolizes the purest and best intentions.
What Does a Red Hyacinth Symbolize?
Red is a fun, vivacious color that symbolizes playtime. It can also be used to represent love, romance, and passion. While red hyacinths aren’t usually given as a romantic gesture, you can use these flowers to spruce up the decor in any setting.
What is the Meaning of a Yellow Hyacinth Flower?
Again, be careful giving someone a yellow hyacinth flower! It symbolizes jealousy, and you don’t want to give someone the wrong message. Like a red hyacinth, however, a bouquet of yellow hyacinths can easily be used to decorate your home.
What is the Pink Hyacinth Meaning?
Like other color varieties of potted hyacinths, the pink color meaning is deep. It can be used to show your affection for a new love, but it also makes a great gift for friends and family, too. It can mean everything from passionate love to gentle affection.
What is the Hidden Message of the Hyacinth Flower?
According to classic Greek Mythology, hyacinths got their name from the Greek legend of a handsome young man named Hyakinthos. Slain by Zephyr, the god of the west wind, Hyakinthos is a classic mythological hero. Supposedly, Zephyr fought for the attention of the young man and was jealous that his guide, Apollo, gave the younger man more attention.
When Zephyr recognized that he was no longer the favored student, he directed a strong wind toward Hyakinthos. The discus that Hyakinthos was throwing flew black and struck him, killing him on impact. Apollo, the sun god, was heartbroken upon witnessing this tragedy and planted a flower where the young boy died.
There are some historians and botanists who believe that the name hyacinth is derived from the word jacinth. This means, “blue gemstone,” and no doubt references the blue cultivar of this plant that is one of the most commonly grown as garden flowering plants.
Don’t forget that the hyacinth flower name most likely came from the legend of Hyakinthos. There are also other plants referred to as hyacinth, like the grape hyacinth for instance, but these belong to different genera.
When Should You Give Someone a Hyacinth Flower?
Whenever you want to send a message of good will and sincerity, hyacinths are a great choice. With their sweet scent and deep cultural significance, hyacinths are great gifts.
As you know now, these flowers come in various colors and the hyacinth meaning changes depending on these colors. Whether you want to show you love someone or congratulate them on a new job, hyacinths make a great choice.
See more: Meaning of flowers
*Photo by smmartynenko/depositphotos
