This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.

• Position: full sun or light shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: March to April
• Hardiness: frost hardy
• Bulb size: 5
  
  This is such a great little plant that in summer 2005 it was voted as the International Flower Bulb Centre's official bulb of the year. The bottom two thirds of the flowers are coloured a very dark blue and appear near black in certain lights. Each spike is topped by a tuft of striking bright blue flowers giving it a two-tone effect. Its leaves are broader and flatter than most other grape hyacinths and they tend to wrap themselves around the stem of each flower rather than just jut up. It is a small plant that packs a big punch when planted in big, naturalistic drifts. Mix it with other spring flowers in an orchard or meadow - try planting it with the hoop petticoat daffodil for great colour contrast. Alternatively cram loads into a pot and place it on a sunny patio.
  
  
• Garden care: Plant 10cm (4in) deep in naturalistic groups in autumn. During summer when the bulbs are dormant lift and divide groups that are becoming congested.