Cyclamen: Plants Care & Growing Guide

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Cyclamen is a small, sweet-smelling flowering plant that produces delicate flowers on long stems, blooming above its attractive leaves. Belonging to the Primulaceae family, its scientific name is Cyclamen persicum, also known as Florist’s cyclamen, Persian cyclamen, and Persian violet. Cyclamen is a perennial plant with heart-shaped leaves that are green with silver markings. It grows from small tubers and features both beautiful leaves and flowers, reaching 6 to 9 inches in height and width. Cyclamen typically flowers in winter, with blooms in various colors including white, pink, red, and purple. After flowering, the plant enters a dormant period where the leaves dry up, and the plant goes into a resting phase. Commonly grown as a houseplant, Cyclamen planted in late summer can bloom in the following winter. However, it is important to note that Cyclamen can be slightly toxic to both animals and humans.

Cyclamen Care

Cyclamen is highly popular among gardeners due to its attractive flowers and ease of care. It can be grown in both outdoor and indoor environments. If growing cyclamen outdoors, it requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light, while direct sunlight should be avoided. Cyclamen persicum is commonly grown indoors in pots and enters dormancy during the summer, but with proper care, it can bloom again in the fall. Warm temperatures push the plant into dormancy, but cooler temperatures can encourage blooming. By providing bright, indirect light, cool temperatures, regular watering, high humidity, well-draining soil, fertilizing during the growing season, and minimal maintenance, you can successfully cultivate cyclamen indoors.

Sunlight & Location

Cyclamen plants require plenty of light to bloom, but they should be placed in a bright spot with indirect sunlight, avoiding direct sunlight. Without adequate light, the plant may not bloom and could become leggy. Cyclamen plants need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight indoors each day, and bright, indirect light encourages blooming. Keep the plants away from direct, intense sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.

An ideal location for cyclamen plants is a south- or west-facing window where they can receive full sunlight. Alternatively, placing them in an east-facing window can provide morning sunlight, which is gentle and will not harm the plants. If your home lacks sufficient natural light, you can use a grow light system to support the plants.

Soil & Fertilizer

Cyclamen plants thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Create an ideal potting mix by combining peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and compost with well-draining soil. This mix will ensure good drainage, preventing waterlogging and protecting the plants from various fungal infections and diseases.

Indoor cyclamen plants require regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, to provide essential nutrients. Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the blooming season (winter). Reduce or stop fertilization during the summer when the plant is dormant. For blooming, you can use a potassium-rich fertilizer to enhance flower quality. You can choose between liquid or granular fertilizers. Liquid fertilizers act quickly and are easily absorbed by plant roots, while granular fertilizers dissolve slowly into the soil. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to leaf drop.

Watering

Ensuring proper water supply for cyclamen plants is crucial for their health and flowering. Check the soil and water when the top layer dries out, continuing until the soil is completely moist. In winter, plants need less water compared to summer because they grow less and soil moisture lasts longer. Avoid watering from above, as this can cause fungal diseases on the crown of the plant. Water at the base to prevent splashing on the leaves. Avoid overwatering, as excess water can lead to root rot.

Temperature & Humidity

Cyclamen plants generally prefer temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C). They thrive and bloom well in cooler temperatures. Warm temperatures can be harmful to cyclamen, causing the plant to enter dormancy quickly. If temperatures rise above 75°F (24°C), the likelihood of the plant flowering decreases, and leaves may start to drop. Therefore, in hot weather, cyclamen should be kept in a cool place. Fans or air conditioners can be used to control the temperature if necessary.

Cyclamen plants generally prefer humidity levels of 50-70%. In dry environments, the leaves may dry out, and the likelihood of flowering decreases. To increase humidity, you can place a tray of water near the plant or mist it regularly. Using a humidifier to raise the room’s humidity can also be effective. Ensuring high humidity will keep the cyclamen healthy and promote beautiful flowering.

Types Of Cyclamen

Cyclamen plants are highly popular among gardeners for their attractive flowers in red, yellow, purple, and white. Many species of cyclamen bloom beautifully and can be easily grown at home. Each species varies in flower color, shape, and growth process. Cyclamen flowers bloom for a long period, and the plants can be purchased from nurseries while in bloom. With the right nutrients and proper care, these plants can thrive indoors. Below are a few species of cyclamen:

Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium is a popular species primarily cultivated in outdoor landscapes. This plant is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers, which range from light pink to deep purple. The leaves of Cyclamen hederifolium are typically heart-shaped and dark green. This plant goes dormant in the summer and blooms at the beginning of autumn. It thrives in cool temperatures and should be planted in shaded or partially shaded areas. It requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. With proper care and maintenance, this plant can be a special attraction in your garden.

Hardy Cyclamen

Cyclamen graecum is known for its especially attractive leaves and flowers. The leaves of Cyclamen graecum are heart-shaped and often have a marbled effect, which is very appealing. Cyclamen graecum goes dormant in the summer and blooms at the beginning of autumn. Its flowers are usually pink or purple and highly fragrant. This plant thrives in dry, rocky locations, with bright indirect sunlight, and cold temperatures in winter. With proper care and maintenance, it can be a beautiful addition to any garden.

Sowbread Cyclamen

Cyclamen mirabile is a small and charming species, primarily found in the southwestern region of Turkey. It blooms at the beginning of autumn, and its flowers are usually light pink to white. The leaves of Cyclamen mirabile are heart-shaped and decorated with silver or white marbling, giving the plant an exceptionally attractive appearance. It thrives in cold temperatures during winter and, with proper care and maintenance, can be a beautiful addition to your garden.

Cyclamen Pruning

Cyclamen plants generally do not require pruning due to their slow growth and natural shape. However, it is beneficial to remove dead flowers and dried leaves after blooming to keep the plant tidy and help reduce the spread of diseases. If the plant has any extra or unhealthy branches, they can be trimmed away. Light pruning can also be done to maintain the plant’s shape and enhance its appearance. Use healthy, sharp pruning shears for this task, and ensure that the shears or other tools are clean and sanitized. After pruning, clean around the plant and dispose of the cuttings. Following these steps will help maintain the health and beauty of your cyclamen plant.

Propagating Cyclamen

Cyclamen propagation can be a complex process because stem cuttings do not root and hybrid varieties of cyclamen do not produce viable seeds. The best way to propagate cyclamen is through seed propagation. The ideal time for seed propagation is during the summer and winter. This should be done with great care to ensure proper growth. Below is the process for propagating cyclamen plants:

  1. During the plant’s dormancy, carefully lift the tubers.
  2. If new tubers have formed, separate them. Use a sharp and clean knife to divide the tubers.
  3. Each tuber section should have some roots. Wait until the tubers are dry.
  4. Plant the tubers in a well-draining soil or potting mix.
  5. Plant the tubers 1-2 inches deep and keep the soil moist.
  6. Place the tubers in bright indirect light and maintain a temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C). It may take some time for new shoots to emerge after planting the tubers.

Potting And Repotting Cyclamen 

When planting your cyclamen in a pot for the first time at home, choose a pot with good drainage suitable for the plant’s size. A mix of well-draining soil with peat moss and perlite is ideal for cyclamen. Carefully place the plant in the center of the pot and fill in around the roots with soil, pressing it down gently. After potting, water the plant thoroughly until the soil is completely moist and place it in a bright, indirect light location. Six weeks after potting, feed the cyclamen with liquid fertilizer.

Cyclamen grows very slowly, so it may need repotting every one to two years. Repotting should generally be done at the end of summer or the beginning of autumn, when the plant is either in dormancy or preparing for growth. Choose a new pot that is slightly larger than the old one and ensure it has good drainage holes at the bottom. Use a fast-draining soil mix; a blend of potting mix with pumice stones, quartz, and potting soil is suitable. Carefully remove the plant from the old pot, making sure not to damage any part of the tuber. If any part of the tuber is rotten or damaged, trim it away. Add some soil to the new pot, place the plant in it, and press the soil and potting mix firmly around the plant. After repotting, water thoroughly until the soil is completely moist. Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight. 

How To Get Cyclamen To Bloom

Although many people treat indoor cyclamen as annuals and discard them after flowering, you can keep the same plant blooming year after year. After the flowers fade, cut back the dead flower stems at the base and remove any yellow or dry leaves to keep the plant tidy and support new growth. As flowering slows down, allow the plant to dry out gradually over two to three months, as it enters its dormant period, typically during the summer. 

During dormancy, water sparingly and ensure the soil does not remain wet to prevent tuber rot. Occasionally check for emerging buds by gently moving the leaves. After the summer drying period, return the plant to bright, indirect light in winter to encourage new growth. As winter progresses into early spring, the cyclamen will start forming new buds. Provide appropriate light, temperature, and a well-draining soil mix, and feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to support blooming. By following these steps, you can help your cyclamen bloom anew each year and enjoy its lasting beauty.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

Indoor cyclamen plants can be affected by various pests and diseases. Yellowing or browning of leaves and drooping leaves are common issues. These problems often arise from overwatering or underwatering, abnormal changes in humidity and temperature, and insufficient sunlight. Below is a detailed discussion of the problems and necessary solutions for cyclamen plants:

Pests Problem

Aphids: Small green or black insects that suck the sap from plants. They cause small spots and curling on the leaves. They can be controlled using natural predators or neem oil.

Spider Mites: Tiny red or brown insects that are usually found on the underside of leaves. They create white or yellow spots on the leaves. Control them by regularly spraying the plant with clean water or using insecticides.

Thrips: Small, elongated insects on the surface of leaves that cause discoloration and damage. They can be managed by removing them from the plant’s base or using specialized insecticides.

Mealybugs: White, cotton-like insects found on plant stems and leaves. They can be cleaned off with alcohol or white vinegar.

Yellow Leaves

Cyclamen plant leaves turning yellow is a common issue that can be caused by various factors. Excessive watering can lead to waterlogging in the soil, which may cause root rot and yellowing of the leaves. Ensure that the soil drains properly and reduce the amount of water given. Both excessive direct sunlight and insufficient light can cause changes in leaf color. Keep the plant in bright, indirect light and protect it from direct sunlight. A lack of proper nutrients can also lead to yellowing, so apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. 

Flower & Leaf Dropping

The dropping of leaves or flowers in plants can be due to overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can make the plant dry out. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Cyclamen are sensitive to temperature changes. High temperatures or sudden cold drafts can stress the plant, causing leaves or flowers to drop. Maintain stable temperatures and protect the plant from excessive heat or cold drafts. Provide bright, indirect light to avoid weakening the plant, and use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Following these steps can help prevent your Cyclamen from dropping leaves or flowers.

FAQ

Cyclamen can live for several years with proper care. Typically, indoor cyclamen plants thrive for 2 to 3 years, but with optimal conditions and regular maintenance, they can last longer. Ensuring the right environment, including proper watering, temperature, and light, helps extend their lifespan.

Cyclamen typically bloom for 6 to 8 weeks. Depending on the variety and growing conditions, their blooming period can vary. With proper care, including adequate light, water, and temperature control, cyclamen can produce flowers during their peak season, often in late fall and winter.

Cyclamen can live for several years with proper care. Typically, indoor cyclamen plants thrive for 2 to 3 years, but with optimal conditions and regular maintenance, they can last longer. Ensuring the right environment, including proper watering, temperature, and light, helps extend their lifespan.

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