The Ciclamen plant (cyclamen) is popular for adding vibrant color indoors, especially during cooler months. Its distinctive heart-shaped leaves, often marbled with silver, form a base for delicate, upward-facing flowers. Blooms are white, pink, red, and purple. It is a favored ornamental.
Cyclamen Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Ciclamen plants thrive in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without harsh direct sun. Too much direct sun scorches leaves, causing discoloration. Insufficient light results in sparse foliage and few blooms, reducing vigor.
Watering Techniques
Proper watering is crucial; overwatering causes root rot. Water from the bottom until topsoil is moist. Alternatively, water around the pot’s edge, avoiding the corm. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings, ensuring adequate moisture.
Soil Preferences
Ciclamen plants prefer a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Peat moss, perlite, and pine bark provide drainage and aeration. Adequate drainage holes prevent water accumulation around roots. This mix supports healthy roots and prevents fungal diseases.
Temperature and Humidity
These plants flourish in cool, consistent temperatures, between 50°F and 65°F (10°C and 18°C). They do not tolerate high heat, triggering premature dormancy and yellowing. Moderate humidity is beneficial in dry indoor environments. Avoid heat sources like radiators or drafty locations, as sudden temperature fluctuations stress the plant.
Fertilization
During active growth and flowering, ciclamen plants benefit from light fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Begin fertilizing when new growth appears and continue through the blooming season. Cease fertilization once the plant enters dormancy.
Understanding the Cyclamen Life Cycle
Ciclamen plants have a distinct life cycle of active growth and dormancy. After blooming (fall through spring), the plant enters a resting phase. During summer dormancy, foliage may yellow and die back as the plant conserves energy. This is normal.
To prepare for dormancy, gradually reduce watering as leaves fade. Move the pot to a cool, dark location (e.g., basement or garage) with temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C). Water sparingly, just enough to prevent the corm from drying, perhaps every few weeks. This rest is essential for the next blooming cycle.
As fall approaches (late August or early September), new growth will emerge from the corm, signaling the end of dormancy. Gradually reintroduce the plant to brighter, indirect light and resume regular watering. This transition helps the ciclamen re-establish and prepare for another season of blooms.
Troubleshooting Common Cyclamen Issues
Yellowing leaves can indicate several issues, including dormancy. If not dormant, yellowing often points to overwatering, starving roots of oxygen. Conversely, dry conditions can cause leaves to yellow and wilt, signaling insufficient moisture. Adjusting your watering routine (see “Watering Techniques”) usually resolves these.
Lack of blooms or leggy growth (elongated, sparse stems) often suggests insufficient light. Moving the ciclamen to brighter, indirect sunlight encourages compact growth and abundant flowering. Fungal issues, like gray mold (Botrytis), can appear on leaves or flowers in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Removing affected parts and ensuring good airflow prevents spread.
Wilting leaves, despite moist soil, can indicate corm rot, often caused by water sitting directly on the corm. This requires immediate attention; if the corm feels soft, it may be too late. Proper watering and allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings are key preventative measures. Consistent attention to these factors maintains a healthy ciclamen.
Is Cyclamen Toxic?
Ciclamen plants are toxic to humans and pets, especially the underground corm. Ingestion of the corm can cause gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea). More severe symptoms like seizures or heart rhythm abnormalities can occur with large ingestions, though rare. Keep ciclamen plants out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.