European Cyclamen, Fragrant Cyclamen
cyclamen purpurascens
Also known as: ["Alpine Cyclamen","Scented Cyclamen"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant, purplish-pink flowers that bloom in late summer to early autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Myrsinaceae |
| Genus: | Cyclamen |
| Botanical Name: | Cyclamen purpurascens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a cool, bright location with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added organic matter and perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during dormancy or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; place in filtered light outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting the foliage or crown to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic, 6.0–6.5
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain cool nights for better flowering; avoid sudden temperature swings
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Reduce frequency in fall and winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup
Propagation
Methods
By seed or division of tubers; division is faster but less common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For division: carefully separate tubers, replant with the top exposed.
- For seeds: sow shallowly, keep warm and moist.
Best Time: After flowering, when the plant is dormant or in early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture for seeds and divisions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for seedlings; coarse sand or peat for tuber division.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; may aid root development for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish; division can produce new plants in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, sterile potting mix, small pots, watering can
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep seedlings consistently moist but not waterlogged
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into the crown.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears
Checklist
Remove dead leaves, use clean tools, avoid crown damage
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after flowering has ceased and before dormancy.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it is not excessively large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Use a well-draining mix; position the tuber so the top is slightly above the soil surface; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the tuber outgrows its container; best when the plant is dormant.
Checklist
Use fresh soil, ensure tuber is exposed, check drainage, water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water at base, ensure drainage, avoid crown wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Water more often during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or crown rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow metabolic processes, leading to poor growth or dormancy.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCyclamen purpurascens is toxic to cats, with cyclamine being the primary toxic compound. Ingestion can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects, particularly if the roots or tubers are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cyclamen purpurascens can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of cyclamine. The roots and tubers are the most toxic parts, but all parts of the plant should be considered hazardous if ingested by dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCyclamen purpurascens contains cyclamine, a toxic compound that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's roots and tubers are particularly concentrated in toxins, but all parts can pose a risk if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Cyclamen purpurascens be watered?
A: Water when the soil surface feels dry, ensuring the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Cyclamen purpurascens require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers partial shade or indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Cyclamen purpurascens turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust watering and ensure proper soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrsinaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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