Persian cyclamen - Cyclamen persicum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Persian cyclamen

Also known as: Cyclamen

Persian cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) is a flowering herbaceous perennial native to Turkey, Israel, northern Africa and some Greek islands. The persian cyclamen root can be combined with lime and added to lakes in order to stun fish. This method of fishing is banned in many jurisdictions.

Scientific classification

Species

Persian cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Mid fall, Late fall, Winter

Bloom Time

Spring

Harvest Time

15 cm to 32 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 22 cm

Spread

Green, Silver, Variegated, Gray

Leaf Color

5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Red, Pink, Purple, Lavender

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, White, Pink

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Persian cyclamen

Distribution of Persian cyclamen

Distribution Map

Persian cyclamen, a flowering plant widely cultivated for its aesthetic value, has a native range spanning the eastern Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East. Its cultivation and popularity have led to its introduction and naturalization in parts of southern and eastern Asia, as well as in regions of Europe. This plant thrives both in its original habitats and in new areas where it has been introduced.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky hillsides, shrubland, woodland, pine forests, oak thickets, open rocky slopes, calcareous soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

Persian cyclamen has strong resistance to sulfur dioxide, a toxic gas in the air.

Economic Value

Persian cyclamen blooms in the winter and spring. During festivals, it enjoys huge market demands and high economic benefits.

Garden Use

While the persian cyclamen is only appropriate for certain climates (and thus most popularly grown indoors), it can thrive in cool autumn temperatures. It is prized for its fragrant, multicolored heart-shaped blossoms that last three months of the year. Snowdrops, Trilliums, and Ferns provide beautiful contrast with the persian cyclamen.

Symbolism

Greeting guests happily

Interesting Facts

Persian cyclamen has high ornamental value. It is very popular because of its unique flower shape and its charming and colorful appearance. Some varieties are full of fragrance. It is a precious potted flower in winter and spring, and also one of the most prominent ones on the world flower market. Persian cyclamen has a long flowering period of up to 5 months, which coincides with traditional festivals such as Christmas, New Year's Day and Spring Festival. It has a huge market demand, high production value, and remarkable economic benefits.

Name Story

Florist's cyclamen||Persian cyclamen: The specific epithet name “persicum” probably means "Persia". This ties in with its utility as a Christmas plant in Germany. Cyclamen comes from the Greek “kyklos” meaning circular, referring to the spiraling of the flower stem after blooming in some of its species. It is the most cultivated plant by gardeners and it can be found in florists' and in garden centers. Hence, it is called florist's cyclamen or Persian cyclamen.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Persian cyclamen, including the following common varieties :

Persian cyclamen 'Halios Scarlet Red'Persian cyclamen 'Halios White'Persian cyclamen 'Laser Scarlet'

Toxicity

The tubers and bulbs of persian cyclamen are mildly toxic to humans when ingested, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or minor stomach irritation. Persian cyclamen is highly toxic to cats and dogs, causing significant health risks if any part is ingested. Owners must seek immediate veterinary care for cats or dogs upon suspected ingestion.

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Quickly Identify Persian cyclamen

Heart-shaped leaves with silver marbling, 1-5.5 inches (2.5-14 cm) long.

Solitary, fragrant flowers with vibrant colors, 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

Round fruit capsule segmented into five chambers, containing 5-40 sticky seeds.

Mound-forming herbaceous perennial, 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) tall.

Blooms in shades of white, pink, red, magenta, or lavender from early winter to spring.

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Care Guide for Persian cyclamen

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Persian cyclamen, native to the Mediterranean, thrives in moderate humidity with consistent weekly watering. It prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot and benefits from indoor care, where conditions can be managed to avoid overhydration during its active growing season.

Fertilize: To ensure optimal growth of persian cyclamen, use balanced and high phosphorus fertilizers bi-weekly at quarter strength during the growing season, reducing in dormancy. Avoid over-fertilization to protect roots, and apply to moist soil while avoiding foliage contact. Adjust fertilization seasonally for health and flowering.

Pruning: Persian cyclamen features colorful blooms and variegated leaves. Prune yellowing foliage and spent flowers in early spring or late winter using clean scissors. This improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and enhances growth, resulting in more vibrant blooms and a neater appearance.

Propagation: Persian cyclamen is a valued houseplant known for its vibrant flowers and patterned leaves. Propagation is achieved by gently dividing tubers during dormancy. After division, plant in well-draining soil, ensuring moisture is maintained without waterlogging for healthy growth.

Repotting: Persian cyclamen' requires repotting every 2-3 years, ideally after blooming in late winter or early spring. Use a slightly larger pot to prevent waterlogging. Post-repotting, maintain evenly moist soil and provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth.

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Images of Persian cyclamen

Distribution of Persian cyclamen

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Persian cyclamen

Care Guide for Persian cyclamen

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