Ivy-leaved Cyclamen
cyclamen hederifolium
Also known as: ["Ivy-leaved Cyclamen","Nodding Cyclamen"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant with ivy-like leaves and nodding pink or white flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Myrsinaceae |
| Genus: | Cyclamen |
| Botanical Name: | Cyclamen hederifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; tolerate partial shade; adjust for stronger light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in seasonal changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; water at the base to keep foliage dry.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; use a mix designed for cacti or succulents.
Temperature
Cool temperatures 50–65°F (10–18°C) preferred; tolerate 65–75°F (18–24°C) in active growth; avoid extreme heat.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain cool nights; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize less in winter; stop in summer; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of tubers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds or divide tubers.
- Plant seeds shallowly or tubers at soil level.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: After flowering in spring or early summer.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; optional for tuber division.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate and establish; Tubers: immediate growth after division.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for spring germination; divide tubers when crowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base with clean scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead leaves; sanitize tools; avoid cutting healthy foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall before dormancy ends.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure 1–2 inches of space around tuber.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; place tuber slightly above soil level; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when crowded; best when dormant or just before growth starts.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; position tuber correctly; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; reduce watering in summer dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (summer); increase frequency in fall and winter when actively growing, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dormancy if too cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid summer dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (fall to spring); avoid fertilizing in summer dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Cyclamen hederifolium, with cyclamine posing a significant risk upon ingestion. The plant can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to the toxic effects of Cyclamen hederifolium, particularly due to the presence of cyclamine. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCyclamen hederifolium contains cyclamine, a toxic glycoside 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.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Cyclamen hederifolium?
A: Plant in partial shade with well-drained soil. Water moderately during active growth and allow the soil to dry out in summer dormancy.
Q: Is Cyclamen hederifolium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Cyclamen hederifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrsinaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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