Cyclamen

A Flowering Houseplant That Requires Very Little Care

Cyclamen persicum is often seen for sale throughout the fall and winter as a houseplant. Aptly referred to as the Florist’s Cyclamen, it has sweet scented flowers that are produced on long stems, held upright above the foliage. It is a tuberous perennial with heart shaped leaves. The cyclamen’s foliage is attractive, often having silver marbling on the topsides of the leaves. The entire plant, when in flower, reaches only about 8 inches high. They can be grown outside, but it is questionable it will survive if temps go below 50 degrees F. / 10 degrees C. It is a native of the Mediterranean and North Africa.

When leaves are present, water when dry. Avoid getting water on the crown of the plant. As the flowers begin to fade, gradually allow the plant to dry out for 2-3 months. When new growth appears resume watering and feeding. Place in a partially shaded spot outdoors for the summer. Bring it back indoors before the cold weather. During the summer light should be bright, but indirect. Move the cyclamen closer to the light source in the winter. Cyclamen do not like heat, but they are not frost hardy. Do not expose to temperatures below 50 degrees F. Avoid drafts as well as hot, dry air.