The Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) is the flowering plant that symbolizes autumn and winter: when balconies and gardens lose their color, its flowers with backward-facing petals, resembling little butterflies, open above a tuft of heart-shaped leaves variegated with silver. This specimen, approximately 25 cm tall, in a pot with a diameter of 14 cm, produces a generous and long-lasting display on windowsills, terraces, pathways, and flower beds, and is also a simple, elegant gift idea for the cold season.
Mixed colors: the cyclamen is offered in assorted colors. The flower color cannot be chosen: when the order is placed, the plants are selected according to current availability. In multi-piece packs, the colors may differ from one another. The images are indicative of the available varieties.
Cyclamen Features
- Cyclamen persicum: perennial tuberous plant with upright flowers whose petals fold backward, borne on slender stems above the foliage.
- Total height of approximately 25 cm, with a pot diameter of 14 cm.
- Mixed colors: the flowers may be red, pink, fuchsia, white, or variegated; the color is assigned when the order is placed according to current availability.
- Heart-shaped leaves, dark green with silver marbling, decorative even between flowering periods.
- Long flowering period, from October through spring, with buds opening successively for months.
Cyclamen Care Tips
- Light: It prefers a bright position sheltered from direct sunlight during the hottest hours. Outdoors, the bright partial shade of balconies and terraces is ideal.
- Water: Water when the surface of the potting soil is dry, pouring the water around the edge of the pot or into the saucer, without wetting the center of the plant or the tuber. Empty the saucer after approximately 20 minutes to prevent waterlogging.
- Temperature: It likes cool conditions, between 5°C and 15°C. It tolerates brief drops to approximately 0°C, but must be protected from severe frost: on the coldest nights, move it close to the house wall or to a sheltered location.
- Placement: Perfect in pots and planters on balconies and terraces, on windowsills, at the entrance to the home, and in winter flower beds, either alone or arranged with heathers and evergreen plants.
- Fertilizing: During flowering, every 2-3 weeks, with liquid fertilizer for flowering plants at a reduced dosage.
- Spent flowers: Remove flowers and dry leaves with a gentle twist, pulling them from the base of the stem, to keep the plant healthy and encourage new buds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyclamen
Can I choose the cyclamen's color?
No, the cyclamen is sold in mixed colors. When the order is placed, the plants are assigned according to current availability, always selecting healthy specimens in full bloom. In packs of 3 or 6, the colors may be assorted.
Can cyclamen be kept outdoors?
Yes, cyclamen likes cool conditions and flowers longer outdoors than in a heated environment. It is ideal for balconies, terraces, and gardens from October through spring, provided it is protected from severe frost and standing water.
How much cold can cyclamen tolerate?
Cyclamen tolerates cool temperatures well and can withstand brief drops to approximately 0°C. In the event of prolonged frost, it is advisable to move it to a more sheltered position, such as a corner of the balcony near the house wall.
How often should cyclamen be watered?
Water when the surface of the potting soil is dry, generally once a week outdoors, and less often during rainy periods. Water should be added through the saucer or along the edge of the pot, avoiding wetting the tuber.
Why does cyclamen have yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves are often caused by excessive water, excessive heat, or a position that is too exposed to sunlight. Remove the yellowing leaves, reduce watering, and move the plant to a cooler, bright location.
How can I get cyclamen to bloom again?
At the end of spring, when the leaves turn yellow, gradually reduce watering and let the tuber rest in a shaded, dry place during the summer. At the end of August, resume watering: the plant will produce new leaves and, in autumn, new flowers.
Is cyclamen toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, cyclamen, particularly the tuber, is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets if ingested, so it is advisable to keep it out of their reach.
