bulb corm tuber

Ivy-leaved Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium ssp crassifolium

The Story

Plant Bio

A hardy perennial with attractive foliage resembling ivy and charming pink flowers.

This cultivar is noted for its particularly thick foliage and vibrant flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

Cyclamen hederifolium adds vibrant color to shaded gardens with its charming, patterned foliage and delicate flowers in autumn.

Provides ground cover in shaded areas, reducing soil erosion.

Supports pollinators like bees during flowering season.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

5 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested, especially the tubers.

Bloom period

Early fall – Late fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in autumn for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root development.
Plant in partial shade with protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Water regularly but avoid waterlogging; keep soil moist.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, dilute fertilizer during active growth.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate plants.

Pro Tip

Use a well-draining, humus-rich soil mix and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering 🌱
Provide bright indirect light for healthy growth
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active season
Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool
Divide crowded clumps in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose plants to direct hot afternoon sun
Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
Don’t neglect to remove dead or yellowing leaves
Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain excess water

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden bedPotted plant on shaded patioUnderstory planting beneath trees

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe HeucheraPrimroses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ivy-leaved Cyclamen questions

What zones can Ivy-leaved Cyclamen grow in?

Ivy-leaved Cyclamen is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ivy-leaved Cyclamen deer resistant?

Yes — Ivy-leaved Cyclamen is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ivy-leaved Cyclamen bloom?

Ivy-leaved Cyclamen typically blooms in early fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ivy-leaved Cyclamen need full sun?

Ivy-leaved Cyclamen does best in part shade.

Is Ivy-leaved Cyclamen drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ivy-leaved Cyclamen handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.