Cyclamen is a perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Primulaceae family. It features round, fleshy bulbs that are typically dark brown or black in color as they age. The outer layer of the bulb becomes corky over time, while the top of the bulb contains a short, shriveled stem from which leaves emerge in a rosette formation. The leaves are oval or ovoid, often marked with white netting, and have serrated edges. Their petioles and flower stems are reddish-brown. Cyclamen produces striking, solitary flowers that hang gracefully, resembling rabbit ears, which is why it's also commonly called "rabbit ear." The flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, red, and purple. They bloom during winter and spring, with the best viewing period usually between December and April.
The fruit is a capsule that splits open, revealing dark red seeds. Native to Greece and the Mediterranean region, cyclamen thrives in sunny, warm, and humid environments but avoids excessive heat and waterlogging. The ideal temperature for growth is around 20°C. Temperatures above 30°C can cause the plant to go dormant, while temperatures below 5°C may damage the bulbs. Therefore, it’s recommended to grow cyclamen in greenhouses during winter, using well-draining, loose, and nutrient-rich soil.
Propagation is primarily done through seeds, though bulb division is also possible. Sowing is typically done from early September to mid-October. Sowing too early may hinder growth, while sowing too late can reduce germination rates. Since the seeds are large, they should be soaked in fresh water for 24 hours before planting. The soil and pots should be disinfected to prevent disease. After soaking, place the seeds in a dark, warm area at around 20°C. Germination usually takes about two weeks, with cotyledons appearing after six weeks.
When seedlings have three leaves, they can be transplanted into pots in September. When transplanting, take care not to disturb the original soil, and bury the bulb up to one-third or half its height. Water the plants after planting and provide shade. Seedlings grow slowly, and by June of the following year, they will enter their active growth phase. During this time, regular watering and fertilization are important—apply liquid fertilizer twice a month. Water when the topsoil is dry, but avoid getting water on the leaves or bulbs to prevent rot.
The ideal growing temperature is around 18°C. If it gets too hot, the plant may go dormant and fail to flower that year. After October, bring the plants indoors where there is plenty of light, keeping the room temperature around 18°C. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Do not fertilize during flowering to ensure longer bloom life.
In summer, cyclamen prefers cool and humid conditions. When temperatures exceed 30°C, the plant enters dormancy. In hot weather, poor ventilation can lead to bulb rot. Young plants should be placed in shaded, well-ventilated areas, misted regularly, and kept cool. For older bulbs (over two years), provide shade and maintain a moist, ventilated environment to encourage quick regrowth and early flowering in the next season.