Eastern sowbread (Cyclamen coum)

Eastern sowbread

The tuber produces roots from the center of the bottom only. It remains small, only reaching about 7 cm across. Leaves are round or kidney-shaped to long heart-shaped. The color is all-silver, all-green, or silver variegated with a variably sized green hastate (arrowhead-shaped) or "Christmas tree" pattern and a green edge.

Scientific classification

Species

Eastern sowbread (Cyclamen coum)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

8 cm

Plant Height

10 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

Pink, White, Purple

Flower Color

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Eastern sowbread

Distribution of Eastern sowbread

Distribution Map

Eastern sowbread is a plant native to a broad region spanning from Southern Europe to the South Caucasus. It has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Northern and Western Europe. Flourishing in temperate climates, eastern sowbread has adapted well beyond its native range due to horticultural appreciation and cultivation efforts, becoming a part of diverse botanical collections.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Eastern sowbread, including the following common varieties :

Eastern sowbread 'Maurice Dryden'Eastern sowbread 'Tilebarn Elizabeth'Eastern sowbread 'Rubrum'

Care Guide for Eastern sowbread

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Eastern sowbread, native to the Mediterranean basin, prefers moderate humidity and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering is optimal. Thriving in indirect light, it suits indoor container gardening. Its bulbous structure aids water retention, especially during the active growing season.

Fertilize: Eastern sowbread thrives with monthly balanced fertilizer during spring and fall, promoting growth and blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing to protect roots; no fertilization is needed in winter. Mild solutions prevent salt buildup, making care accessible for all gardeners, ensuring longevity and health.

Pruning: Eastern sowbread features heart-shaped leaves and delicate blooms. Prune between early and late spring to remove spent flowers and yellowed leaves, promoting healthy growth and preventing disease. Regular pruning ensures vigor and tidiness; use clean, sharp tools to minimize plant stress.

Propagation: Renowned for its winter flowers, eastern sowbread propagates effectively from seeds. Use a well-draining, humus-rich substrate and keep it moist with low light for germination. Handle seedlings gently and acclimate them to growing conditions to promote strong development before transplantation.

Repotting: Repot eastern sowbread every 2-3 years in spring after dormancy, using a slightly larger container with good drainage. After repotting, keep eastern sowbread in indirect light and maintain moist soil to promote recovery and enhance flowering for the next season.

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