About

The Silver-leaved Group consists of low-growing perennials that display small pink flowers with backward-curving petals from late summer through mid-autumn. Their leaves, which are shaped like ivy, are silvery-grey with varying dark green patterns and remain visible from early autumn until mid-spring.

About the genus

Cyclamen are perennial plants that grow from tubers and feature rounded or occasionally angular foliage, frequently displaying appealing mottled patterns. Their flowers, which are nodding and distinctive in shape, consist of five petals that are reflexed and twisted, often exhibiting dark markings near the base.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Plant type

Bulbs

Habit

Matforming

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

Up to 10 cm

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden

Toxicity

Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Ornamental bulbs, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Plant near the surface in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Avoid excessive summer moisture and mulch well when leaves wither. Tolerates dry soil under trees. See hardy cyclamen cultivation

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed, sown in darkness as soon as ripe. Can be beneficial to soak seed for 10 hours prior to sowing. Seedlings may vary, so select those with the best colour

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to mice, squirrels and vine weevil

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to cyclamen grey mould, particularly when grown under glass