Persian Violet Cyclamen 'Sierra Light Purple' (Sierra Series)
ABOUT
Cyclamen 'Sierra Light Purple', from the Sierra Series, is a visually captivating plant that is particularly noted for its distinctively patterned foliage and striking flower display. The leaves are heart-shaped with a deep green color, often sporting a silvery, marbled variegation that adds depth and beauty to the plant's overall appearance. The flowers are the star attraction, with delicate, upswept petals that give them a look reminiscent of butterflies in flight. The petals of 'Sierra Light Purple' boast a lovely light purple hue, with a gradient that can range from a paler shade at the edges to a more intense purple near the flower's base. The center of each flower typically features a darker, magenta-toned mouth, which is a common characteristic of Cyclamen flowers. These blossoms stand above the foliage on slender stems, adding a touch of whimsical elegance to the plant. The contrast between the ornate leaves and the enchanting light purple flowers creates an alluring display that is both eye-catching and graceful.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sowbread, Persian Cyclamen, Florist's Cyclamen
Common names
There are no scientific synonyms for Cyclamen 'Sierra Light Purple' (Sierra Series). The basic scientific name provided is the accepted name for this cultivated variety.
ToxicityTo humans
Cyclamen, including the Sierra series, contains saponins which can be toxic if ingested. In humans, symptoms of cyclamen poisoning typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and even death, although such extreme reactions are rare. It is advisable to keep cyclamen plants out of reach of children, who might be tempted by their attractive flowers.
To pets
Cyclamen is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The toxic compounds, primarily saponins, are concentrated in the tubers (roots) but all parts of the plant can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of cyclamen poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, pets might experience heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and even death. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet ingests any part of a cyclamen plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Light Purple
Height
6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
Spread
6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Cyclamen adds a burst of color with its beautiful light purple flowers that can brighten up any garden space or indoor area.
- Long Blooming Period: It typically has a prolonged flowering season, providing color and interest for an extended time.
- Easy to Care: Cyclamen is known for being a low-maintenance plant, which is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Compact Growth: With its compact size, it is ideal for small gardens, containers, or as a houseplant where space is limited.
- Seasonal Interest: Being a cool-season bloomer, Cyclamen offers floral interest during fall, winter, or early spring when other plants may not be flowering.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees to your garden, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, Cyclamen can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping or areas with water restrictions.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, rockeries, and woodland gardens, as well as in indoor pots.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art Inspiration: The delicate petals and vibrant colors of the cyclamen can serve as a muse for artists and crafters looking to incorporate natural beauty into their work.
- Photography Subject: Cyclamen, with their unique shape and vibrant colors, can provide an excellent subject for botanical photographers and hobbyists.
- Seasonal Decor: The cyclamen's bright blooms can be used to add a pop of color to winter decor, given that they often flower during cooler months.
- Educational Tool: Biology teachers may use the cyclamen to explain plant life cycles, particularly how some plants are adapted to thrive in cooler temperatures.
- Theme Gardens: Cyclamen can play a role in theme gardens, such as fairy or miniature gardens, due to their whimsical flower shapes and foliage.
- Gift Plant: Potted cyclamen are often given as gifts for holidays, as they can symbolize deep love and affection, according to flower symbolism.
- Container Gardening: Cyclamen are suitable for growing in containers, making them a great option for balcony gardens or indoor window sills with adequate light.
- Wedding Decor: Their elegant blooms can be used in wedding bouquets or table arrangements, particularly for winter weddings.
- Color Themes: Cyclamen can help establish or accentuate purple color themes in gardens or interior decor, enhancing the visual appeal of the environment.
- Creative Projects: The dried petals of cyclamen can be used in scrapbooking, pressed flower art, or other creative paper-based projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cyclamen is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cyclamen is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Deep Love: Cyclamen, in general, are often associated with deep and sincere affection, making them a gift to express profound feelings.
- Goodbye and Parting: Sometimes, cyclamen can symbolize separation or goodbye, possibly because the flower can go dormant, which is similar to a departure.
- Sincerity: The simplicity and beauty of the cyclamen often represent genuine, heartfelt emotions.
- Resilience and Survival: Able to endure in tough conditions, cyclamens can stand as a symbol of resilience and the will to survive through hardship.
- Motherly Love: Frequently associated with the Virgin Mary in Christian symbolism, it can extend to mean a deep, caring, maternal love.
WaterCyclamen, commonly known as Persian violet, should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry. Usually, this means watering about every 7 to 14 days, but the frequency can vary depending on the environmental conditions and the size of the pot. When watering, use lukewarm water and pour it directly onto the soil, avoiding getting water on the leaves or the crown of the plant, to prevent rot. It's best to allow excess water to drain completely; expect to use about half a gallon of water for a standard 6 to 8-inch pot during each watering session.
LightCyclamen prefer bright, indirect sunlight, making an east or north-facing window an ideal spot for these plants. They can handle some direct morning sunlight, but the intense afternoon sun should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch. A location that provides light shade or filtered sunlight will help maintain the vibrant color of the blooms and leaves.
TemperatureCyclamen thrive in cool temperatures between 40 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive temporarily outside this range, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 68 degrees Fahrenheit or below freezing can be detrimental to the plant. Ideal growing conditions would be in cooler environments that stay consistently within the preferred temperature range.
PruningPruning Cyclamen involves removing yellowing or dead leaves and faded flowers to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. It's best to prune these plants right after they bloom, which typically occurs in late winter or early spring. Pinch or cut off the spent flowers and leaves at the base to encourage the plant to direct its energy to new growth. Check the plant weekly and remove any yellowing leaves or spent blooms as needed throughout the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Cyclamen, use a well-draining soil mix with peat, perlite, and compost. Keep the pH slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5-7.0.
RepottingCyclamen should be repotted every couple of years or when the tuber outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingCyclamen prefer high humidity levels, around 50-70%. Avoid placing them in very dry environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Cyclamen in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Place Cyclamen in dappled shade, sheltered from intense sun and wind.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleCyclamen 'Sierra Light Purple' begins its life as a tuber, which sprouts roots, leaves, and flowers as environmental conditions become favorable, typically in fall. The leaves are heart-shaped and the flowers have a distinctive upswept petal shape, ranging in color from light to deep purple. After flowering, which can last for several months, the plant enters a dormant period in the summer where the leaves die back and the plant conserves energy in its tuber. During dormancy, it is essential to reduce watering to prevent tuber rot. As temperatures cool, the cycle starts anew with the emergence of fresh leaves, signaling the end of dormancy and the beginning of another growth cycle. This regrowth will lead to further flowering in the subsequent fall to winter season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Cyclamen 'Sierra Light Purple', commonly known as Sierra Series Cyclamen, is often propagated by seed. The best time for sowing cyclamen seeds is from late winter to early spring. To propagate by seed, one must sow the seeds in a tray filled with a well-drained potting mix, just covering them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. The tray should then be placed in a cool area, as cyclamen seeds germinate best in temperatures between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 18 degrees Celsius). It's necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings usually emerge in 30 to 60 days and, once they're large enough to handle, can be transplanted into individual pots. Seed propagation requires patience, as cyclamen grown from seed can take up to 18 months to flower.
