Hyacinths are stunning. With their fragrant clusters of flowers and vibrant colours, they’re a favourite for both home gardens and bouquets. But if you’re after something similar, or you’re curious about other blooms that capture the same charm, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of flowers that look like hyacinth.
These flowers bring the same charm with slightly different textures, shapes, and scents. Think of it as a floral lookalike list that brings fresh inspiration to your floral choices.
Let’s have a look at some of the most beautiful flowers that could pass off as hyacinths’ stylish cousins.
1. Grape Hyacinth (Muscari)
Grape hyacinths are often mistaken for miniature hyacinths because of how similar they look at a glance. Their tiny, bell-shaped blooms cluster tightly along a short stalk, forming a dense spike that mirrors the classic shape of true hyacinths. They typically bloom in deep purple or blue, though some varieties come in white or soft pink.
One key difference is their size. Grape hyacinths are smaller and tend to grow only about 6 to 8 inches tall. They’re perfect for borders, flower beds, or rock gardens and do well in cool climates. Their soft scent and whimsical look make them a lovely choice for bouquets and spring-inspired table decor.
2. Bluebells (Hyacinthoides Non-Scripta)
Bluebells are a woodland classic and are especially known for creating carpets of blue in forests during springtime in Europe. They grow on slender stems that gently bend at the top, giving a cascading effect. Each stem usually carries about 5 to 15 bell-shaped flowers. These blooms have a soft, violet-blue colour and a faint, sweet fragrance, very much like traditional hyacinths.
The similarity lies in the shape and colour of the blooms. While hyacinths grow more upright with tighter clusters, bluebells offer a more relaxed, graceful display that still mimics the same romantic feel. In flower vase arrangements, they add a natural, fresh-from-the-woods touch. Though bluebells are not native to tropical regions, they can occasionally be imported by high-end florists.
3. Scilla (Squill)
Scilla is a lesser-known flower but a true lookalike to hyacinths in many ways. The flowers grow in tight clusters along a central stem, with each individual bloom shaped like a star. These clusters mimic the fullness and texture of a hyacinth spike. Common colours include pale blue, deep violet, white, and sometimes pink.
Scilla is very popular in Europe and North America for spring gardens. They thrive in cooler climates and are often used for naturalising lawns and woodland borders. When cut and arranged in bunches, scilla flowers offer a similar visual effect to hyacinths, especially when paired with other soft-toned flowers.Â
4. Lily Of The Valley
Although lily of the valley has a looser structure than hyacinths, its tiny, bell-shaped blooms bring a similar romantic and vintage elegance. The flowers grow along a slender, arching stem and are usually pure white, although there are rare pink varieties. Each plant gives off a powerful, sweet scent, often stronger than that of hyacinths.
Lily of the valley blooms in early spring and thrives in shaded or semi-shaded gardens in cooler climates. It is commonly used in wedding bouquets because of its symbolic meanings of purity and humility, and its delicate look fits beautifully alongside hyacinths and roses. Since it does not do well in tropical weather, it's more commonly seen in premium flower imports in Singapore.
5. Ornithogalum (Star Of Bethlehem)
Star of Bethlehem is often overlooked, but it is an elegant bloom that resembles hyacinths when used in arrangements. The plant produces upright stems covered in small, six-petaled white flowers that open out into a star shape. These flowers grow in clusters, and when grouped together, they give the same full, upright appearance that hyacinths are loved for.
They also last longer than hyacinths in vases, which makes them a favourite among florists looking for structure and longevity. The contrast of their sharp white petals with green stems adds a clean, sophisticated feel to arrangements. Some varieties even feature a green stripe on each petal, which gives an extra modern look to a classic flower shape.
6. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum)
Snapdragons are taller and more sculptural than hyacinths, but the way their flowers stack along the stem creates a similar visual texture. Each stem can carry dozens of blossoms that open from the bottom up, forming a colourful column of soft blooms. Available in just about every colour imaginable, snapdragons range from gentle pastels to rich jewel tones.
What makes them similar to hyacinths is their vertical form, layered flower structure, and ability to fill space in a bouquet or garden bed. Snapdragons are also prized for their long vase life and are readily available throughout the year in Singapore. Some varieties have a mild fragrance, although not as strong as a true hyacinth.
7. Stock (Matthiola Incana)
Stock is one of the best floral substitutes if you’re seeking the thick, fragrant cluster effect of hyacinths. These flowers bloom along tall stems, with dense petals packed tightly together. They come in beautiful soft shades such as lilac, white, pink, and cream. Many florists choose stock specifically for its scent, which is spicy, clove-like, and long-lasting.
Stock grows well in cool climates and is used heavily in cut flower arrangements because of its structure and scent. In Singapore, they are usually imported, especially during cooler months, and are a staple in elegant floral arrangements. Stock flowers pair well with roses, lisianthus, and, of course, hyacinths, when in season.
How To Spot A Hyacinth Lookalike
If you love hyacinths but want to find flowers with a similar look, it helps to know what features to watch out for. While not all flowers will match exactly, many share the same standout traits.
Here’s what to look for when spotting a hyacinth lookalike:
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Clustered Blooms: Hyacinths are known for their dense bunches of flowers that grow tightly along the stem. Look for flowers that have that same compact, full appearance.
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Bell-Shaped or Star-Shaped Petals: Most hyacinth-like flowers have small petals that form bells or stars. This gives them a soft, textured look.
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Upright Stems: Hyacinths grow vertically, so flowers with tall, upright stems and a neat shape often give the same effect in gardens or bouquets.
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Pastel or Rich Colours: Hyacinths come in blues, pinks, whites, purples, and even yellows. Look for flowers in these shades to get a similar visual feel.
- Fragrance: While not a must, many hyacinth alternatives also smell lovely. If you enjoy scented flowers, stock, lily of the valley, or bluebells are great options.
Conclusion About Flowers That Look Like Hyacinth
Whether you're building your dream garden or simply looking for a new favourite bloom, flowers that look like hyacinth offer stunning options with similar beauty, fragrance, and charm. There’s a whole world beyond the classic hyacinth, and now you know where to start.
If you’re ready to enjoy these lovely alternatives, shop with The Daily Blooms, the best flower delivery in Singapore, and get 10% off your first bouquet today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flowers That Look Like Hyacinth
Are Grape Hyacinths Related To Regular Hyacinths?
Not exactly. While they share a similar name and appearance, grape hyacinths belong to a different plant family. However, they look very much like mini hyacinths and are loved for their deep blue tones.
Can I Grow These Hyacinth Lookalikes In A Tropical Climate Like Singapore?
Some of them, like snapdragons and stock, can be grown or sourced through floral suppliers in tropical regions. Others, such as bluebells and lily of the valley, are seasonal or require cooler climates, but are still available through floral importers.
Which Hyacinth Alternative Is Best For Cut Flower Arrangements?
Stock and snapdragons are perfect for cut flower arrangements. They hold their shape well, offer beautiful fragrance, and complement a variety of other flowers.
Do These Lookalike Flowers Have Fragrance Like Hyacinths?
Yes. Stock, lily of the valley, and even bluebells carry lovely scents. While the exact fragrance differs, they offer a similarly pleasant aroma that makes them great for indoors.
Are There Any Non-Poisonous Options Among These Flowers?
Yes. While lily of the valley is toxic if ingested, flowers like snapdragons and stock are generally non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and kids. Always double-check with a reliable plant safety source.
