Persian Cyclamen Cyclamen 'Sierra Scarlet' (Sierra Series)

Water

Cyclamen, commonly known as Sierra Scarlet, prefer to be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering the plant with about 8 ounces of water for a smaller pot or up to a half-gallon for a larger container once every 7 to 10 days, but this can vary based on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. It is crucial to water the soil directly and avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers to prevent issues with rot. During the dormant period (usually in the summer), reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to remain drier.

Light

Sierra Scarlet Cyclamen do best in bright, indirect light; exposure to a few hours of morning light is ideal, followed by partial shade for the remainder of the day. They should be placed in a well-lit room but should be kept away from direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. East-facing windows are typically a good spot for Cyclamen to receive the appropriate amount of light.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for Sierra Scarlet Cyclamen is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to keep the plant away from drafts or sudden temperature changes, as Cyclamen prefer a stable environment. They can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to freezing conditions.

Pruning

Sierra Scarlet Cyclamen benefit from periodic removal of yellowing or dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Prune as needed throughout the year, with a focus on tidying up the plant after blooming has finished. The best time for major pruning is in late summer before new growth begins with cooler fall temperatures.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Persian violet 'Sierra Scarlet' thrives best in a well-draining soil mix comprising peat, perlite, and potting soil, aiming for a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Persian violets should be repotted annually in the dormant season, typically in summer when flowering ceases, to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Persian violet prefers high humidity levels, ideally around 50-60%, but can tolerate a range from 40-70% without direct misting onto the flowers.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Persian violet in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Keep in semi-shade, protect from hot sun and frost.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA.

Life cycle

Cyclamen 'Sierra Scarlet', commonly known as Persian cyclamen, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in a moist, well-draining growing medium in partial shade. The seedling develops into a small bulb-like structure called a corm, which then produces heart-shaped leaves and a sturdy stem. As it matures, the plant begins its flowering phase, usually in the fall or winter, producing vibrant red flowers atop long stems that rise above the foliage. After the flowering phase, the plant enters a dormancy period in the late spring and summer where it appears to die back, but the corm remains alive underground. During dormancy, it's essential to reduce watering to prevent rot. As temperatures cool and moisture increases with the onset of autumn, the cyclamen will break dormancy, regenerating its foliage, and start the cycle anew with another flowering period.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Cyclamen 'Sierra Scarlet', more commonly known as cyclamen, is often propagated by seed rather than vegetative means, as it can be challenging to divide the tubers without damaging the plant. The most popular method of propagation for cyclamen is through sowing seeds, which is typically done in the late summer or early fall. Fresh seeds are sown on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix and covered with a thin layer of the same mix or fine-grade vermiculite to maintain moisture. You should keep the temperature between 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 20 degrees Celsius) and provide indirect light. Germination can take several weeks to a few months, and once seedlings develop true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots. It's a slow process, but with patience, it leads to the growth of new cyclamen plants that will eventually flower, often in their second or third year after sowing.