Cyclamen hederifolium (Hardy Cyclamen, Ivy-leaved Cyclamen)


Michael's Opinion

A stunning, class plant that brings detail to the garden both when in bloom or leaf. Pity it is not used more often.

Botanical Information

FamilyMyrsinaceae (Primulaceae)
GenusCyclamen
Specieshederifolium
CategoryBulbs, Perennials

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7b - 8a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone7b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 to -10
Temperature (°F)5 - 14
Height10 cm
Spread10 - 50 cm
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodAugust, September, October

Description and Growing Information

ShapeLow growing, almost ground hugging.
LandscapeBeds and borders, containers, ground covers and mass planting.
PropagationSow seed of open-pollinated plants in late summer to flower in about 14 months.
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Mulch annually with leaf mold as leaves wither, mulching deeper where marginally hardy. Do not overwater; the tubers prefer it dry when dormant. May take a few years to establish, but will eventually self-seed and become abundant. Plant with Ophiopogon planiscapus to heighten autumn show in the garden.
Notable SpecimensThe Gardens of Fanshawe College, London, Ontario, Canada. Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth, Cornwall.
Flower DescriptionScented, mottled flowers emerge directly from the soil.

Photographs