Cyclamen 'Halios White' Cyclamen persicum 'Halios White' (Halios Series)

Water

Cyclamen require careful watering. The Persian cyclamen should be watered whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, which may be about once a week, depending on environmental conditions like humidity and temperature. Use lukewarm water and water from below by filling a tray and letting the plant soak up the water through the drainage hole for 15 to 30 minutes, then discard any excess water. Aim to provide roughly one inch of water, which may equate to around 16 ounces for a standard pot size, ensuring even soil moisture but avoiding waterlogged conditions. It is better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, as cyclamens are prone to rot if they sit in too much water.

Light

Persian cyclamen thrives in bright, indirect light. It's best placed in a north or east-facing window where it gets plenty of light but is shielded from the intense direct rays of the afternoon sun. Avoid placing it in full shade or overly dim areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.

Temperature

Cyclamen prefer cooler temperatures and will flourish in an environment where the temperature is maintained between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can tolerate a minimum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be subjected to temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods. Keep them away from drafts and sudden temperature changes to maintain the ideal temperature conditions.

Pruning

Pruning Persian cyclamen is important for promoting new growth and prolonging the blooming period. Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves by twisting and tugging them gently; this helps prevent disease and encourages the development of new blooms. Pruning is best done after the flowering season, typically by reducing the foliage when it starts to yellow and die back naturally. Regularly deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season will also keep the plant looking tidy and encourage more flowers to form.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For Cyclamen, the best soil mix is well-draining, with a high content of organic matter such as peat or compost, and added perlite or vermiculite for aeration. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Cyclamen should be repotted every one to two years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot. Repotting is best done when the plant is in its dormant stage.

Humidity & Misting

Cyclamen prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 50%, which can be achieved through regular misting or placing a humidifier nearby, especially during dry indoor heating seasons.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light; avoid hot, direct sun.

• Outdoor

  Keep in partial shade, shelter from intense afternoon sun.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cyclamen persicum 'Halios White', commonly known as Persian cyclamen, begins its life cycle as a seed, sown in late winter to early spring. Upon germination, a small tuber forms and develops foliage; the leaves grow from the tuber with heart-shaped, silver-patterned green leaves, and the plant enters a vegetative state. As it matures, typically after several months, it produces stems with white flowers, each with a characteristic upswept petal shape, indicating the plant's reproductive stage. After flowering, which can last for an extended period if conditions are favorable, the plant sets seed, which is then distributed to form new plants. Following the blooming period, Persian cyclamen enters a dormancy phase, during which the above-ground foliage dies back and the tuber rests, often in a dry state throughout the summer. With the onset of cooler, moister conditions in autumn, the tuber breaks dormancy, and the cycle begins anew with the emergence of fresh leaves, preparing the plant for the next flowering phase.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Cyclamen persicum 'Halios White', also known as florist's cyclamen, is commonly propagated by seed as it is the most popular and practical method for this particular variety. The best time for seeding is typically late summer to early fall, as seeds require a period of cool temperatures to germinate successfully. Sow the seeds thinly onto a well-drained seed-starting mix, covering them lightly with the growing medium. Maintain a consistent moisture level but avoid overwatering which can lead to fungal diseases. Germination can take up to 30 days and sometimes longer, so patience is crucial. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots. It is important to keep them in cool, well-lit conditions, avoiding direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage of young plants.