Cyclamen

Cyclamen is a tuberous perennial renowned for its ornamental marbled foliage and graceful, butterfly-like blooms that emerge from fall to spring in a wide range of colors. The following varieties highlight the diversity within this popular genus and are excellent for brightening indoor spaces, containers, and shaded garden beds with minimal care and maximal visual impact.

Cyclamen Lilac

Cyclamen Lilac features heart-shaped, dark green leaves with silver marbling, creating a refined backdrop for elegant, upswept flowers in subtle lilac tones. Each blossom rises on delicate stems above the foliage, with five petals forming a delicate, nodding display that brings a gentle splash of pastel color to cool-season settings. This compact variety typically grows 6–8 inches tall, ideal for windowsills, winter gardens, or shade containers.

Cyclamen Rose with Eye

Cyclamen 'Rose with Eye' presents an eye-catching two-tone effect, with bright rose-pink petals and a crisp white center “eye.” Flowers have a daisy-like appearance and stand above silver-marbled, heart-shaped leaves. Reaching 8–10 inches high, this variety’s dramatic floral contrast infuses brightness and charm into indoor groupings or mixed winter pots, especially when massed for impact.

Cyclamen Scarlet Red

Cyclamen 'Scarlet Red' dazzles with intense scarlet, swept-back petals and deep green, silver-veined foliage. Its bold color stands out against the softer hues of traditional winter-bloomers, and the plant's compact stature (6–10 inches tall) suits pots and window boxes on cool patios or bright interiors. Each bloom adds dynamic color when little else is in flower.

Cyclamen Deep Magenta

Cyclamen 'Deep Magenta' is notable for its vibrant magenta-purple flowers, sometimes accented with white margins, that rise above ornate, silver-patterned foliage. The large, ruffled flowers last from late fall to early spring, drawing the eye in mixed groupings or solo displays. Mature plants develop into dense mounds about 12–14 inches wide and tall, making them excellent centerpieces for winter displays indoors or out.

General Care for All Cyclamen Varieties

Light: Bright, indirect light is best indoors; dappled to partial shade is preferred outdoors.

Soil: Use a well-draining, fertile mix, ideally with peat and perlite for containers.

Water: Keep soil lightly moist, water at soil level, and avoid wetting the crown to prevent rotting.

Temperature: Cool conditions (55–70°F / 13–21°C) support long-lasting blooms; heat shortens the display.

Humidity: Moderate humidity is ideal; ensure good ventilation but protect from drafts.

Fertilizing: Apply half-strength balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.

Dormancy: After flowering, let foliage die back as the plant rests; reduce watering and resume when new shoots emerge.

Toxicity: Cyclamen tubers are toxic if ingested; keep away from pets and children.

These varieties offer a spectrum of rich hues, making cyclamen a favorite for winter color and indoor floral displays, while their relatively easy care and compact habit ensure continual appeal throughout their bloom season.