Florist's Cyclamen Cyclamen persicum
ABOUT
Cyclamen persicum, commonly known as the florist's cyclamen or just cyclamen, is a plant with a distinctive and attractive appearance, characterized by its beautiful and unique flowers, as well as its ornamental foliage. The flowers of cyclamen feature upswept petals that look like butterfly wings suspended on slender stems above the foliage, creating an elegant display. These petals can be found in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, purple, red, and white, often with a contrasting base color which may be magenta or deep violet, giving them a striking appearance. The heart-shaped leaves of cyclamen add further charm to the plant, contributing to its decorative quality. These leaves are generally dark green in color and are often adorned with attractive silver or pale green marbling or variegation, providing a stunning backdrop for the vibrant flowers. The foliage grows in a rosette form, spreading outwards from the base of the plant, which gives the cyclamen a lush, full appearance. The overall aesthetic of the cyclamen is one of delicate beauty, with its striking blooms and ornate leaves making it a popular choice for indoor decoration and as a seasonal gift.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae.
Synonyms
Persian Cyclamen, Florist's Cyclamen.
Common names
Cyclamen aleppicum, Cyclamen hederifolium var. persicum, Cyclamen latifolium, Cyclamen persicum var. latifolium, Cyclamen vernale.
ToxicityTo humans
Cyclamen, specifically Cyclamen persicum, contains toxic compounds such as saponins that can be harmful if ingested. Eating any part of the plant may lead to symptoms including stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can result in heart rhythm disorders or seizures, although such extreme reactions are rare. It is advisable to keep cyclamen out of reach of children and to avoid consuming any part of the plant.
To pets
Cyclamen is toxic to both cats and dogs. When a pet ingests part of a cyclamen plant, particularly the tubers or roots which contain the highest concentration of toxic saponins, it can lead to symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, increased salivation, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death if not treated promptly. Pet owners should keep cyclamen plants out of reach and seek veterinary care immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Varies
Height
6 inches (15 centimeters)
Spread
6 inches (15 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and beauty to indoor and outdoor spaces with its unique upswept flowers and attractive foliage.
- Seasonal Interest: Typically blooms in the winter, providing color and interest during a time when many other plants are dormant.
- Compact Size: Its small size makes it suitable for windowsills, tabletops, and small garden spaces.
- Gift Plant: Often given as a gift during holidays and special occasions due to its appealing look and seasonal blooming.
- Easy Propagation: Can be propagated from seed or by dividing tubers, making it easy to multiply and share with others.
Variety of Colors: Comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, white, and purple, allowing for customization to personal tastes or decor schemes. 
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cyclamen persicum bulbs can be used as a natural form of rodent control, as they contain substances that are toxic to rodents when ingested.
- The tubers of the cyclamen plant have been used in traditional fishing practices, where they are crushed and thrown into water bodies to stupefy fish, making them easier to catch.
- In floral art, the cyclamen's distinctive heart-shaped leaves and striking flowers are used to add an exotic touch to arrangements and bouquets.
- Cyclamen leaves can be applied as a natural source of green pigment for artists seeking organic colorants for their work.
- The flowers of the cyclamen plant are sometimes crystallized and used as decorative and edible elements in pastry making.
- In some cultural ceremonies, cyclamen is used as a symbol of love and tenderness, with the flowers being part of wedding decor or given as gifts.
- Some gardeners plant cyclamen in containers with deep-rooted trees or shrubs, where their shallow root system will not compete for nutrients.
- Cyclamen persicum sometimes serves as a food source for butterflies, moths, and other beneficial insects, enhancing local biodiversity.
- The plant has been used in the art of perfume making, as it can contribute a delicate and appealing fragrance to a perfume blend.
- During certain festivals and events, live cyclamen plants are often displayed to symbolize the coming of spring due to their early blooming season.
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 persicum, commonly known as Cyclamen, often symbolizes sincere and deep love, due to its heart-shaped leaves and beautiful, vibrant flowers that bend elegantly downwards.
- Devotion: The perennial nature and the way Cyclamen grows back stronger every year is seen as a representation of enduring and devoted love.
- Goodbye: In the language of flowers, cyclamen can sometimes represent a parting or a resignation, possibly because the flower withers and goes dormant, symbolizing a temporary goodbye.
- Sincerity: Cyclamen is often associated with sincerity, likely connected to the way it grows with an open, almost 'honest' appearance.
- Diffidence: The downcast flowers of the Cyclamen have led to associations with shyness or diffidence, symbolizing a beauty that is not boastful or overbearing.
WaterThe Persian cyclamen prefers to be watered beneath its leaves directly onto the soil to avoid water accumulating in its crown, which can cause rot. It should be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry, generally amounting to once every 7-10 days, depending on the humidity and temperature. Use lukewarm water, and provide about half a gallon for a standard pot size each watering session. During its dormant period in the summer, reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to remain dry until new growth appears in the fall.
LightPersian cyclamen thrives best in bright, indirect light. It is ideal to place it near a window that gets plenty of light but is shielded from direct sunlight. East or north-facing windows are typically the best spots for this plant. Avoid placing it in full sun, especially during the hotter months, as the leaves can scorch.
TemperaturePersian cyclamens prefer cooler temperatures, thriving in conditions between 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive at minimum temperatures just above freezing, but should not be exposed to heat above 68 degrees for extended periods. Ideal growing conditions involve cool nights and moderately warm days.
PruningPrune your Persian cyclamen to remove any yellowed or dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period. The best time to prune is after the flowers have faded, typically in late winter or early spring. Prune sparingly and focus only on the parts of the plant that are not thriving.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Cyclamen, also known as Persian cyclamen, is light, well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand. It should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingCyclamen persicum, commonly known as Persian cyclamen, should generally be repotted every 1-2 years, best done when the plant is dormant.
Humidity & MistingPersian cyclamen prefers high humidity levels, around 50-60%, but it's important to maintain good air circulation to prevent mold and fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Shelter in partial shade; protect from intense sun and frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleCyclamen persicum, commonly known as florist's cyclamen, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in a cool, shady environment to produce a small tuber. The tuber enters a growth phase, developing roots and a rosette of leaves, and is dormant during hot and dry summers. During autumn or winter, the plant enters its flowering stage, sending up stems that hold the characteristic upside-down flowers in various shades of pink, red, or white. After pollination, which is often facilitated by insects, the flowers develop into seed pods that swell and eventually release seeds as the plant foliage withers. The cyclamen then enters a period of dormancy, where the tuber rests before the next growth cycle begins, typically when cooler and moister conditions return. This cycle repeats annually, with the tuber enlarging each year and potentially producing more flowers as the plant matures.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: Cyclamen persicum, often known as florist's cyclamen, is commonly propagated through seed sowing. The best time to sow cyclamen seeds is in the late summer or early fall. To propagate by seeds, first, soak the seeds for 12 to 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After soaking, sow them in a tray or pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, barely covering the seeds with soil. Maintain a constant temperature of approximately 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), and keep the soil lightly moist. Germination can be slow and uneven, often taking 30-60 days. Once seedlings develop true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots to continue growing.
