Cyclamen brightens indoor spaces with its marbled foliage and delicate flowers. Despite its delicate appearance, this plant is easy to care for once its natural cycle and environmental needs are understood.
This complete guide walks you through each step: light, temperature, watering, humidity, repotting, dormancy and solutions to common problems.
1. Understanding the Cyclamen Life Cycle
The cyclamen Cyclamen persicum follows a reversed rhythm compared to most houseplants. It grows and blooms in cool temperatures, slows down in spring, and rests completely during summer.
Key point
Yellowing in late spring is normal: the cyclamen is entering dormancy. This rest period is essential for long-term health.
2. Ideal Light
Cyclamen prefers bright but indirect light. Direct sun through glass can burn the foliage, while insufficient light produces stretched stems and fewer blooms.
Best locations: east-facing windows, north-facing windows, or west-facing with a sheer curtain.
3. Temperature and Environment
Cyclamen thrives in cool conditions. Ideal temperatures range from 13 to 18 °C during the day and around 10 °C at night. Above 20 °C, the plant quickly begins to decline.
Avoid radiators, heating vents and hot rooms. A fresh environment significantly extends flowering.
4. Watering
The cyclamen tuber is highly sensitive to rot. Water lightly and regularly, never excessively.
When to water
When the top of the soil feels dry and the pot is lighter.
How to water
Bottom watering is ideal: place the pot in a bowl for 10 minutes, allow absorption, then drain. If watering from above, always water the outer edge, never the center.
5. Humidity and Airflow
Ideal humidity ranges between 40 and 50%. Avoid misting. Ensure good airflow without cold drafts to prevent fungal problems.
6. Fertilizing
Fertilize only during active growth. Use a flowering plant fertilizer at half strength every three to four weeks.
7. Removing spent flowers and leaves
Remove wilted flowers by gently pulling the stem with a twisting motion. This prevents rot and encourages new blooms.
8. Repotting
Repot only after the rest period, when roots fill the pot. Use a light mix and a slightly larger pot to avoid excess moisture.
9. Dormancy
In summer, cyclamen yellows and dries. Reduce watering and place it in a cool, dry place. Resume watering once new leaves appear.
10. Common Problems
Yellowing leaves
Common causes: overwatering, high heat or inadequate light.
Short-lived flowers
Indicates a room that is too warm.
Grey mold
Caused by stagnant humidity. Remove affected parts and improve airflow.
Sudden collapse
Either too much water or not enough. Check soil moisture.