The smell of hyacinths is unmistakable: a light, fresh, sweet, floral scent that evokes feelings of warm luxury and springtime. Intensely green – like the blossoms of spring – this flower emits a mild, slightly medicinal aroma that resembles that of its white flower cousins. Further into the scent, you’ll find a jasmine-like, indolic freshness etched with animalic characteristics. You’ll also notice some marine undertones along with a sweet and spicy tinge.
Hyacinth notes combine well with white florals like lavender, jasmine, tuberose, gardenia, and more. It also complements other scents that seek to evoke springtime-in-a-bottle, such as citrusy and musky notes.
Interestingly enough, the origin of the hyacinth plant dates back to a Spartan youth, Hyacinthus, who was the lover of the Greek god Apollo. However, he was accidentally killed in a game of discus with the god. Apollo, despite his medical prowess, was powerless to save the young boy who died in his arms. In his grief, Apollo created a flower from Hyacinthus’s blood and called it hyacinthos to symbolize his love.
Fast forward to today, and it’s not hard to see why the hyacinth and its fragrance signify beauty and blessings for the new year. In much the same way as Apollo’s flower, hyacinths arise from the detritus of the past and create new life.