Cyclamen hederifolium
Cyclamen hederifolium
The hardiest cyclamen for UK gardens, flowering from September to November with pink or white swept-back petals. The ivy-shaped leaves appear after flowering and remain decorative through winter and spring. Thrives in dry shade under trees and shrubs. Long-lived tubers grow larger each year, some reaching 30cm across.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow cyclamen hederifolium
Plant tubers just below the surface in summer, hollow side up. Thrives in dry shade under trees. Self-seeds freely to form carpets. Leave undisturbed once established — tubers resent disturbance. Add leaf mould to the planting area.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, chalk
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
No maintenance needed. Leaves die back naturally in summer.
Propagation
- Seed (self-seeds freely)
Wildlife value
Toxicity
All parts toxic, especially tubers. Contains cyclamin causing gastrointestinal upset and convulsions if ingested.
Common problems
- Vine weevil on container plants
- Mice eating tubers
- Rot if planted too deep
Similar bulbs to grow
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