Cyclamen persicum aka Florist's Cyclamen

Cyclamen persicum is a tuberous perennial in the primrose family. Its common names include Persian cyclamen and florist's cyclamen. It comes from Algeria and the eastern Mediterranean region. Wild plants grow in pine woods, oak thickets, and rocky ground. These places have hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The plant forms a low mound and rests during summer. Its leaves turn yellow and fall as this rest begins.

Plants often stand about 0.3–0.75 feet [0.1–0.23 metres] tall. The RHS gives an upper height of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Its listed spread also reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Dark green leaves have a heart shape and silver patterns. Their edges have small teeth. The leaf undersides may look pale green or purplish green. Slender flower stalks rise straight from the dark brown tuber. Each stalk carries one flower above the leaves.

Flowers open from early winter into spring, often lasting three months. Their petals bend back and point upwards. The scented blooms may be white, pink, red, lavender, or magenta. Some have a dark red patch near the base. Bees pollinate the flowers. The fruit forms a small capsule with five chambers. Each capsule holds between five and forty seeds. It splits open as the seeds ripen. Ants may visit the sweet, sticky seeds.

This plant suits indoor pots, greenhouses, and sheltered containers. Its patterned leaves and winter flowers provide the main display. Some gardeners grow it as a winter annual. Give it bright, filtered light and well-drained, loam-based compost. Direct sun can scorch the leaves. Keep the tuber's top just above the compost surface. Cool air and moderate humidity suit active growth. The RHS advises winter temperatures of at least 13–16°C. Water moderately during growth, then reduce water after flowering. Keep the plant dry during its summer rest. Avoid hot, dry air and draughts. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H1C.

Too much water can rot the tuber. Grey mould and black root rot may also occur. Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips can attack plants. Vine weevils may damage plants in pots. Mice and squirrels may also cause harm. The plant is poisonous to people, cats, dogs, and horses. Eating it can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Large amounts can cause severe poisoning or death in pets. The roots and tubers pose a particular risk. Handling the plant can irritate skin. Do not treat it as an edible plant.