Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet

Description

Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was created by crossing Cyclamen persicum and Cyclamen coum. This plant is known for its stunning deep red flowers that bloom in winter and early spring, making it an ideal choice for indoor decoration during the cold months.

Taxonomic Information

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

Appearance

Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet has a tuberous root system that produces a rosette of heart-shaped leaves with silver markings. The leaves can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and are held on long petioles that arise from the center of the tuber. During winter and early spring, the plant produces upright stems that bear clusters of deep red flowers with reflexed petals and a white center. The flowers can grow up to 1 inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.

Care Guide

Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves.
• Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, and stop fertilizing when the plant goes dormant.
• Soil: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.
• Sunlight: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 but can be grown as an indoor plant in colder climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Thrips: These pests can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Bacterial Crown Rot: This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and remove infected plants immediately.
• Gray Mold: This fungal disease can cause grayish mold on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in shaded areas. It prefers cool temperatures and moist conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet be grown outdoors?

A: Yes, Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. It prefers shaded areas with well-draining soil.

Q: How often should I water Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet?

A: Water Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the plant to rot.

Q: How can I propagate Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet?

A: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet can be propagated by seed or division. To propagate by division, wait until the plant goes dormant and carefully separate the tubers.

Q: How long does Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet bloom?

A: Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet blooms from winter to early spring, usually for about 4-6 weeks.

Related Plants

• Cyclamen coum
• Cyclamen persicum
• Cyclamen hederifolium
• Cyclamen purpurascens

References

• “Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet”, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
• “Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet”, Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk.
• “Cyclamen Rainier Scarlet”, Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com.