Cyclamen (Cyclamen Persicum) - Growing from flower seeds can be very rewarding! Cyclamen Persicum plants are often seen for sale throughout the fall and winter as a house plant. This variety of Cyclamen is often referred to as the Florist's Cyclamen. It can be grown from Cyclamen seeds, and it has sweet scented small 1/2 - 3/4 inch flowers that are produced on long stems, held upright above the foliage. It is tuberous with heart shaped leaves. Indoors, Cyclamen can be a perennial with a 2 - 3 month dormancy each year. This variety can also be planted outdoors, but unless it is brought back inside it will not survive cold temperatures.

Although the Cyclamen is a tender plant, it does not need a strong heat, and will not endure temperature extremes of any kind. Sudden changes are always fatal to its growth. The optimal temperature range should not be allowed to fall below 50F or to rise above 70F at any time. For indoor growing, place the pot on pebbles that are in a tray and are in water. The Cyclamen can absorb the water from its roots. Never pour the water directly over the crown of the plant, as that will lead to rot. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month. Dilute it to half strength for Cyclamens.

Cyclamen Persicum seed may benefit from soaking in tepid water until the seeds are swollen. This may take 24 hours. Sow the Cyclamen flower seeds indoors using small pots and a peaty starter mix. The flower seed should not be buried any more deeply than the seed is thick. The pots need to be placed in a dark place, and the flower seeds should never be allowed to dry out. As soon as germination begins, take the pots out of the dark and place them in a sunny area but not in direct sun.

Fragrant and Beautiful

How To Grow

Cyclamen seeds may benefit from soaking in tepid water until swollen (about 24 hours). This helps prep the seed for germination. Afterwards, sow indoors in small pots with a peaty starter mix. Don't bury seed any deeper than its own thickness. Keep pots in a dark place until and keep soil moist until germination. After germination, move pots out of the dark. Cyclamens need consistent watering. When watering, pour under the leaves so as to avoid plant rot. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month: dilute to half strength.

• Environment: partial shade
• Soil: well-drained w' pH 6.5
• Sowing rate: 2-3 seeds per plant

Plant Specifications

Cyclamens are annual flowering plants that grow in USDA zones 6 through 8. They have a very unique reverse-petalled appearance that is complemented by variegated leaves and a particularly strong fragrance.

• Bloom color: mix
• Bloom season: summer and fall
• Plant height: 12 inches