Cyclamen

Description

Cyclamen is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Primulaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region, and there are about 20 species of Cyclamen. The plant has heart-shaped leaves that are green or silver, and flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, white, or purple. Cyclamen is popular as a houseplant, and it blooms in the winter months.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Ericales
Family	Primulaceae
Genus	Cyclamen

Appearance

Cyclamen has heart-shaped leaves that are green or silver, and flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, white, or purple. The flowers have five petals that are swept back, and they have a distinctively sweet scent. The leaves of the Cyclamen plant are variegated with a silver or white edge, and they grow in a rosette pattern. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and 8 inches in width.

Care Guide

Cyclamen requires moderate care for optimal growth. Here are some tips on how to care for Cyclamen:

• Water: Cyclamen needs to be watered regularly, but not too much. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
• Fertilization: Cyclamen needs to be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
• Soil: Cyclamen prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Cyclamen prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Cyclamen can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cyclamen is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves and flowers of the Cyclamen plant. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
• Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
• Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves of the Cyclamen plant to rot. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Cyclamen is native to the Mediterranean region, and it grows in rocky, well-drained soils. The plant prefers cool temperatures and high humidity, and it can grow in both shaded and sunny areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cyclamen grow outdoors?

A: Yes, Cyclamen can grow outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 9.

Q: Is Cyclamen poisonous?

A: Yes, Cyclamen is poisonous if ingested, and it can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Q: Can Cyclamen be propagated?

A: Yes, Cyclamen can be propagated by seed or division.

Q: How often should Cyclamen be fertilized?

A: Cyclamen should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Primula
• Viola
• Pansy
• Calendula

References

• “Cyclamen.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.almanac.com/plant/cyclamen.
• “Cyclamen.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h930.
• “Cyclamen.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16254/cyclamen/details.