Persian Cyclamen Cyclamen persicum

Persian Cyclamen is a flowering herbaceous perennial that grows from a tuber. This species is very popular with florists, and it is frequently called the "Florist's Cyclamen." They have a mounded growth habit and measure 6 to 9 inches tall. Their leaves are heart-shaped, and the flowers are sweetly scented. The blooms come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, magenta, or lavender. They typically bloom from early winter to spring and are dormant during the summer. 

This species is native to Algeria to the East Mediterranean. Their summers are usually hot and dry, and the winters are cool and wet. Pine forests, oak thickets, and rocky slopes are their preferred growing sites. Persian Cyclamen was introduced to Western Europe in the 17th century and eventually gained popularity in the United States. Florist's Cyclamen is a cultivar of the wild Cyclamen persicum, and they are now sold all over the world.

Cyclamen comes from the Latin word "cyclamnos." It is also derived from the Greek word "kylos," which means circle or wheel. This refers to the shape of the plants' tubers. They are not from Persia, but the species name persicum means "from Persia."

The plants are only winter hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. The Florist's Cyclamen are frost tender. The plant prefers rich, well-drained soils and bright indirect sunlight. They are best grown indoors. Cool temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and moderate humidity are recommended. Avoid watering the crown of the plant, which can result in the tubers rotting, and only water when the soil feels dry. It is best to water along the edge of the pot or at the base of the pot. Watering should be reduced when the plant becomes dormant.  As fall arrives, the plant will begin to grow again, and regular watering can then resume. Removing the spent flowers will encourage continued flowering.

Cyclamens are propagated by seeds and division. The seeds need to be fresh, and the germination period is 20-30 days. Sometimes germination can be erratic. Propagation by division can also be difficult because the tuber is prone to rot. 

The flower stalk rises directly from the tuber. The dark brown tuberous root is poisonous. The stalk grows up to 6 to 9 inches tall. The leaves are dark green, heart-shaped, and they have marbled silvered patterns. A solitary flower appears on each stalk. The 2-inch bloom has 4-5 petals and is fused at the base. They give the appearance of a delicate butterfly. The species flowers are scented, but some cultivated varieties are unscented. The fruit is a 5 chambered capsule and contains 5-40 seeds. When ripe, the capsule will split open.

The flowers are pollinated by bees. 

Persian Cyclamen or Florist's Cyclamen is a popular potted plant selection for Valentine's Day because of its heart-shaped leaves and blossoms of red, pink, white, and lavender. It is also popular at Christmas. When the plant goes dormant during the summer, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. Most people discard the plant at this point. Re-blooming can sometimes be difficult in the home. Low levels of light may make the plants weak, which results in smaller blooms and lighter leaf colors. The plant should re-bloom during the winter with proper care, light, moisture, and cool temperatures.

Caution: Cyclamen plants contain a toxin known as saponins. Chewing or ingestion of any portion of this plant, especially the tubers or roots, by your pets can result in poisoning. The signs and symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Abnormal cardiac rhythms, seizures, and death can occur if a large amount is ingested.

Quick ID Hints:

• Deep green heart-shaped leaves with silver marbling
• Mounded growth habit
• Sweet-scented flowers of red, pink, white, or purple
• Tall slender stems
• Blooms early winter to early spring

Diseases, Pests, and Other Problems:

There are no serious diseases or pest problems. Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips may attack the plant. Tuber rot occurs if the plant is overwatered.