Cyclamen are a genus of plants native to Alpine & Mediterranean Europe, North Africa and the Middle East and are a part of the Primrose family or Primulaceae. Cyclamen thrive in shady, rocky places and are perfect for providing that much needed splash of colour in the garden throughout the winter months.
There are approximately 20 species of Cyclamen to choose from, some of which are hardier than others. This garden plant has gained much recognition due to the fact that different species provide flower throughout the year. For gardeners this means that with careful planning they can have Cyclamen in bloom all year round.
In their native climate, wild Cyclamen can be found in the rocky and semi-arid regions where they are protected from the full severity of the sun by other taller plants. Similarly, Cyclamens in the UK grow well in dry, humus-rich soil where they receive some shelter from other plants. These hardier versions of their native counterparts have proven to be an essential part of modern gardens in the UK.
As mentioned previously Cyclamen can provide colour throughout autumn, winter and early spring and are versatile enough for growth in pots both indoors and outdoors. During the spring time species such as the Cyclamen Coum are at their very best. This dependable Cyclamen has beautiful carmine flowers and is perfectly at home in humus-rich soil. Other varieties include the Cyclamen Coum 'Nymans' which is recognisable for its silver patterned foliage.
The autumn months are traditionally when the self-seeding Cyclamen begin their flowering season, including the Cyclamen Hederifolium, an early flowering species with light pink flowers and silver green foliage. Like its relatives the Cyclamen Hederifolium is surprisingly shade tolerant and is does well when positioned under other trees and shrubs.
Some Cyclamen species are not hardy enough to be left out all year so will need some extra attention during the colder months but many survive well in a cold frame during the worst of the weather. A cold frame is essentially a transparent-roofed enclosure that is low to the ground and works in a similar way to a greenhouse and protects tender garden plants during the winter months. The Cyclamen Graecum and Cyclamen Africanum are just two examples of Cyclamen species that need a little more TLC during the winter months.
Other notable Cyclamen species include the Cyclamen Purpurascens, a hardy and almost evergreen species that originates from the woodlands of Austria. Typically able to hold its leaves throughout the year the Cyclamen Purpurascens has lilac pink to purple red flowers and is low growing. The Cyclamen Trochopteranthum has beautiful twisted carmine or pink flowers above heart shaped leaves and the Cyclamen Pseudibericum, a striking magenta flower that is well suited to rockeries and small patio planters.
Due to their popularity you will find most online garden centres will have selection of Cyclamen species to choose from whether you are looking for garden bulbs or Cyclamen plants.
