Spring sowbread - Cyclamen repandum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Spring sowbread

Spring sowbread (Cyclamen repandum) is a flowering plant species native to southern Europe and some Mediterranean islands. Spring sowbread's scientific name means "bent back." This species can tolerate cold temperatures. This species can be differentiated from similar species Cyclamen hederifolium by the lack of ear-shaped lobes on its flowers called auricles.

Scientific classification

Species

Spring sowbread (Cyclamen repandum)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Brown

Fruit Color

Red, White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Spring sowbread

Distribution of Spring sowbread

Distribution Map

Spring sowbread is naturally found across the Mediterranean region, thriving in temperate woodlands and shaded areas. This plant has also been introduced and cultivated in parts of Europe, expanding its presence beyond its native habitat. Its adaptability allows it to be grown in various locales, making spring sowbread a versatile species within its extended range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

In moist areas with copious winter rainfall, in shady places from sea level to about 1300m, in deciduous and evergreen woods and in scrub or shady spots in rocky terrain.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The spring sowbread plant is grown in gardens for its winter-blooming beauty, peppery scent, and hardiness. It is generally used as a ground cover beneath trees, where its flowers add color in winter. It is often planted in containers in order to better control its humidity and soil conditions, and how much sunlight it is getting.

Symbolism

Tenderness, sincerity and lasting feelings, maternal love for our ancestors

Interesting Facts

The tuberous roots of the cyclamen, called the corm, can grow and thrive for a hundred years. The corms are rich in alkaloids and poisonous to all animals except pigs. Swine are the only animal not affected by the plant and will actually dig up the tuberous corms to devour.

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Toxicity

Spring sowbread contains triterpenoid saponins, causing toxicity in humans, cats, and dogs primarily through ingestion. Symptoms include gastrointestinal distress like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Entire plant is hazardous; observe caution to prevent accidental ingestion, especially by children and pets. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets ingest the plant.

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Care Guide for Spring sowbread

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from Mediterranean woodlands, spring sowbread prefers moist, well-drained soil and higher humidity. It shows moderate drought tolerance but thrives with consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering. Typically grown indoors, spring sowbread enters dormancy post-flowering, leading to significantly reduced water needs during its rest period.

Fertilize: To care for spring sowbread, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers monthly during the growing season to enhance bloom density and longevity. Use diluted solutions to avoid root burn, transitioning to bi-monthly for maturing plants. Avoid fertilizing after repotting for optimal growth.

Pruning: Spring sowbread features attractive foliage and delicate flowers. Prune in early to late spring after flowering to encourage growth and bloom. Sanitize tools to prevent disease, and consistent pruning maintains its appearance. Timing and clean cuts are essential for optimal health and aesthetics.

Propagation: Spring sowbread is a perennial known for its vibrant flowers and patterned leaves, thriving in shaded, well-draining soil. Propagation involves immediate seed sowing in gritty compost, with consistent moisture. Germination can be erratic, requiring patience, moderate temperatures, and indirect light for seedling growth.

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Images of Spring sowbread

Distribution of Spring sowbread

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Spring sowbread

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