Florist’s cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) was introduced in Western Europe in the early 17th century and has slowly gained popularity in the United States. The genus, Cyclamen, has about 20 species which are all native to the Mediterranean region. Cyclamen is a tuberous potted plant that flowers during the winter months. Cyclamen have green foliage mottled with silver and range in size from 6 to 16 inches in height. Its heart-shaped leaves bloom in white, pink, rose, purple, and red.
Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures and bright indirect light. Avoid placing cyclamen plants near heat vents because this will cause the soil to dry out too quickly. Cyclamen prefer moist, but not soggy soil. Water along the edge of the pot or from below to avoid causing the tuber to rot. Removal of the spent flowers can help encourage more flowers to develop. When deadheading, grab the spent flower stem securely and pull off completely from the crown of the plant. With proper care cyclamen will continue to bloom up to four weeks.
It is difficult in the home environment to re-bloom a cyclamen plant. Typically, light levels are not high enough in the home which results in weak plants with smaller blooms that are lighter in color and leaves that have elongated petioles. To encourage reblooming, keep the soil from completely drying out during the dormant period. Then, place the dormant cyclamen in a shady place until new leaves emerge. When new leaves start to grow, move the plant to a bright, full sun, location and water the soil thoroughly. Continue to water regularly and fertilize it monthly with a liquid houseplant fertilizer. Keep the cyclamen in a location of 50-65F.
Cyclamen are fairly problem free. Occasionally they may have aphids, mealy bugs, spider mites or thrips, which can be controlled with insecticidal soaps. Plants infested with cyclamen mites are best discarded because this pest is difficult to control.
For more information on Cyclamen, please visit the HGIC website at hgic.clemson.edu. Tune in on Tuesday nights to watch “Making it Grow” at 7 p.m. on SCETV or mig.org. Email Outen at callenb@clemson.edu.
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