Persian cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)

Also known as: Cyclamen

The Persian cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) is a perennial plant that originates from regions such as Turkey, Israel, parts of Northern Africa, and several Greek islands. Historically, its roots have been mixed with lime and dispersed in water bodies to stun fish, making them easier to catch. This fishing technique is now prohibited in many areas due to its environmental impact.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Plant Comprehensive Care Guide: Beginner's Introduction and Key Details

Perfect for beginners starting their plant care journey

→

10 Secrets to Making Persian cyclamen Grow Faster (A Must-Read for Beginners)

Advanced tips to accelerate your plant's growth

→

Care "Black Tech": 10 Little-Known Highly Effective Maintenance Tips

Expert-level techniques for optimal plant care

→

Attributes of Persian cyclamen

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 32 cm

Spread

15 cm to 22 cm

Leaf Color

Green Silver Variegated Gray

Flower Size

5 cm

Flower Color

White Red Pink Purple Lavender

Images of Persian cyclamen

Quickly Identify Persian cyclamen

Heart-shaped leaves with silver marbling, 1-5.5 inches (2.5-14 cm) long.

Solitary, fragrant flowers with vibrant colors, 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

Round fruit capsule segmented into five chambers, containing 5-40 sticky seeds.

Mound-forming herbaceous perennial, 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) tall.

Blooms in shades of white, pink, red, magenta, or lavender from early winter to spring.

Scientific Classification of Persian cyclamen

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Heathers and allies

Family

Primrose

Genus

Alpine violet

Species

Persian cyclamen

Planting and Growing of Persian cyclamen

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 6 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-65℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Persian cyclamen?

Cyclamen persicum, commonly known as the florists' cyclamen, thrives when its waterings are moderate, not drowning the soil nor allowing it to dry out completely. Each time you water, provide about 250 ml of water, aiming for consistency. This amount ensures that the roots are adequately moist but not overwhelmed, facilitating healthy growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Persian cyclamen? ›

What should I do if my Persian cyclamen is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Persian cyclamen? ›

How to save an overwatered Persian cyclamen? ›

More About Watering Techniques Group→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Persian cyclamen?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2-6 hours of sun

Cyclamen persicum thrives in partial sun or full shade. Adequate light encourages vibrant blooms and prevents leaf discoloration, ensuring continued cycle of growth and flowering.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Cyclamen persicum? ›

How can you achieve the ideal lighting conditions? ›

What are the benefits of achieving ideal lighting conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques Group→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Persian cyclamen?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 65℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Cyclamen persicum is between 50°F and 65°F. This range helps ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooming. Maintaining this temperature range mimics the plant's natural Mediterranean climate, promoting optimum photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.

What Soil is Best for Persian cyclamen?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cyclamen persicum thrives in well-drained soil because it prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Ensuring proper drainage is essential for maintaining healthy roots and optimal growth. A nutrient-rich soil is vital for Cyclamen persicum as it ensures the plant receives essential nutrients for its flowering process. An organic-rich mix supports robust growth and vibrant blooms. The soil should be light and aerated to facilitate root expansion and breathability. This condition promotes healthier root development, reducing stress on the plant for flourishing blooms. More About Soil Group→

How to Fertilize Persian cyclamen?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cyclamen persicum, also known as the Persian cyclamen, benefits from moderate and balanced feeding. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to a quarter strength (e.g., 0.5-0.7 grams per liter) for liquid feeding. Slow-release fertilizers are typically applied at half the recommended rate to prevent nutrient burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques Group→

How to Prune Persian cyclamen?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Cyclamen persicum is sensitive to excessive pruning. Over-pruning can lead to stress and reduced flowering. Only remove what is necessary to promote health and vitality. The plant's tuber and roots are delicate and can be easily damaged. Avoid excessive pressure when handling the plant during pruning to prevent unnecessary injury.

How to Propagate Persian cyclamen plant?

Propagate Time: Late winter, Early spring

Start by soaking Cyclamen seeds in warm water for up to 12 hours. This step helps to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. Ensure the water is not too hot, as excessive heat can damage the seeds.

Sow the seeds on the surface of the prepared compost in seed trays. It's important not to bury them too deeply; just lightly press them into the soil. Cover with a thin layer of vermiculite to keep moisture.

Place the seed trays in a cool, shaded spot or a greenhouse if possible. Maintain a temperature of around 15-18°C (59-64°F). Regularly mist the compost to retain moisture but avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot.

How to Repot Persian cyclamen plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Cyclamen persicum shows signs it needs repotting when the tuber starts to outgrow its current pot or the soil degrades. Typically, new growth in spring signals the right time to repot. This ensures that the plant has enough space and nutritious soil to thrive.

Select a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Cyclamen prefer snug quarters where the roots can establish a strong system without excess water pooling. A pot with adequate drainage holes is essential to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably with a base of peat, perlite, and compost. This combination provides the perfect balance of moisture retention and aeration, ensuring roots remain healthy and free from rot. The soil should support the tuber while allowing it to access water efficiently.

More About Repotting Techniques Group→

Toxicity of Persian cyclamen

Is Persian cyclamen toxic to humans?

The tubers and bulbs of the Persian cyclamen exhibit mild toxicity in humans if ingested. Poisoning incidents are most often the result of accidental consumption, which is rare given the plant's unpleasant flavor. Ingesting substantial amounts of the tubers or bulbs may result in vomiting and diarrhea, while a smaller intake is likely to cause minor stomach irritation that lasts only for a few minutes. Persian cyclamen can be found both as a woodland plant and as a houseplant.

Is Persian cyclamen toxic to cat?

The Persian cyclamen represents a serious health hazard for cats, categorized with a toxicity level that demands careful attention. Cats are particularly at risk if they accidentally consume any portion of this plant. Following exposure, a cat could endure various levels of physical distress or sickness, highlighting the necessity for cats to steer clear of every part of the Persian cyclamen. If ingestion is suspected, it is crucial for cat owners to respond promptly and obtain urgent veterinary assistance at a dedicated facility to protect the health of their feline friend.

Is Persian cyclamen toxic to dog?

The Persian cyclamen is known to be toxic to dogs. If dogs inadvertently consume any part of this plant, they face the risk of poisoning due to the inherent toxicity found throughout all its components. Potential symptoms following a poisoning incident may include gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially more serious reactions, which are contingent upon the quantity ingested. Therefore, it is vital for dog owners to remain alert and prevent their pets from gaining access to Persian cyclamen. Should a dog ingest any section of this plant, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the most favorable outcome for the affected pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques Group→

Learn More About Persian cyclamen Diseases

Anthracnose Bacterial Wilt Damping-off Drought Stress Fusarium Wilt Gray Mold Leaf Curl Leaf Spot Mosaic Nutrient Deficiency Powdery Mildew Root Rot