How to Grow and Care for a Cyclamen Plant

The Cyclamen plant, known for its swept-back petals and heart-shaped, silver-marbled leaves, is a popular choice during cooler months. Its flowers float above the foliage on slender stems, bringing vibrant color indoors in shades from white and pink to deep red. The plant’s patterned foliage can be as eye-catching as the flowers themselves, making it an attractive houseplant.

Cyclamen Care

Light

These plants flourish in bright, indirect sunlight. An east-facing window provides gentle morning sun without the harsh intensity of direct afternoon light, which can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light can lead to a lack of flowers and yellowing leaves, so providing enough brightness without direct exposure is important for its health.

Water

The plant is highly susceptible to rot if watered improperly. Water from the bottom by placing the pot in a saucer of water for 15-20 minutes, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from the base. This method prevents water from splashing onto the leaves and central tuber, which can lead to rot. Allow the soil surface to feel dry to the touch before watering again.

Soil

Cyclamen require a well-draining, humus-rich potting medium. A quality potting mix labeled for African violets works well, or you can amend a standard mix with perlite to improve drainage. The tuber should be planted so that its top is slightly above the soil surface to help prevent rot.

Temperature and Humidity

Cyclamen prefer cooler conditions, with ideal daytime temperatures between 60-65°F and nighttime temperatures around 50°F. Keep the plant away from heat sources like vents or radiators to extend its blooming period. To increase humidity, place the pot on a tray filled with wet gravel, ensuring the pot is not sitting directly in water.

Fertilizer

During its active growing and flowering season, feed the cyclamen every two weeks with a low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer formulated for flowering houseplants. Do not over-fertilize, as this can promote weak, leafy growth that is more prone to disease. Once the plant stops blooming and prepares for dormancy, cease fertilizing.

Understanding Cyclamen Dormancy

After a cyclamen finishes blooming in late spring, it enters a natural rest period known as dormancy. This is an adaptation to hot, dry summers in its native habitat and is a normal part of its life cycle, not a sign the plant is dying. The first signs include a slowdown in growth, followed by the yellowing and wilting of leaves as the plant conserves energy in its tuber.

When you notice these signs, gradually reduce watering as the leaves die back. Once all foliage has withered, stop watering completely and remove the dead leaves. Move the pot containing the dormant tuber to a cool, dark, and dry location for two to three months.

To reawaken the plant in late summer or early fall, repot the tuber in fresh, well-draining soil with its upper half above the soil line. Begin watering sparingly, and once new leaf growth appears, move the plant back to its spot with bright, indirect light. Resume your regular watering and feeding schedule to encourage a new season of blooms.

Common Problems

Beyond its normal dormancy, a cyclamen’s health issues often point back to its environment. Yellowing leaves or drooping flowers can indicate that the plant is too warm or has been watered improperly. Reviewing the care basics for light, water, and temperature will resolve most common problems.

Pests are not frequent on indoor cyclamen but can be an issue. Spider mites can appear in dry conditions and can be managed by increasing the humidity around the plant. Mealybugs may also occasionally appear on the leaves or stems and can be removed manually.

Cyclamen Toxicity

It is important to be aware that cyclamen plants are toxic if ingested by pets or humans. The plant contains triterpenoid saponins, which are most highly concentrated in the tuber. These substances can cause significant irritation and illness if eaten.

Ingestion can lead to symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea in cats and dogs. Therefore, place the plant in a location safely out of reach of curious children and pets. This ensures the plant can be enjoyed without posing a risk to household members.