Cyclamen: grow beautiful blooms and keep them safe

Some cyclamen species can be toxic to pets, yet they’re one of the most rewarding houseplants when you know how to care for them. If you want bright winter or spring flowers without guesswork, this guide gives straightforward tips on planting, watering, feeding, and avoiding common mistakes.

Quick care basics

Cyclamen prefer bright, indirect light—think a north or east window. Too much sun scorches leaves; too little light stops blooms. Use a well-draining potting mix; cyclamen dislike sitting in wet soil. I recommend a mix with perlite or grit so water moves through fast. Keep the room cool: 50–65°F (10–18°C) is ideal. Warm rooms shorten bloom time.

Water properly: water from the side or bottom to avoid wetting the crown or tuber. Let the top 1/2 inch of soil dry before watering again. Over-watering causes tuber rot faster than under-watering. When plants go dormant after flowering, reduce water and store them in a cool, dry spot until new growth appears.

Planting, feeding, and propagation

Plant cyclamen tubers with the top third of the tuber above the soil surface. Space tubers so leaves have room to spread. Feed lightly during active growth with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3–4 weeks. Stop feeding when leaves yellow and the plant enters dormancy.

You can propagate cyclamen by seed or tuber division. Seeds need a few months to germinate and are best started in cool conditions; they’re slow but give you new varieties. Dividing tubers is faster but only do it when the plant is fully dormant to reduce stress.

Watch for pests and problems: spider mites, aphids, and cyclamen mites are common. Remove affected leaves and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Yellowing leaves usually mean over-watering or old foliage—trim yellow leaves to keep the plant tidy.

Bloom timing varies by species. Cyclamen persicum (the common florist cyclamen) often blooms in winter, while hardy varieties like Cyclamen hederifolium bloom in fall. If your plant stops flowering, check light, temperature, and feeding rather than assuming it’s dying.

Important safety note: cyclamen contains compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and more serious symptoms in dogs, cats, and children if ingested. Keep plants out of reach, and call a vet or poison control if you suspect ingestion. Don’t rely on folk remedies—medical advice matters.

If you want long-lasting blooms, rotate plants for even light, remove spent flowers at the stem base, and give periods of cool rest after flowering. With simple care—cool temps, careful watering, and the right soil—cyclamen will reward you with clean foliage and colorful flowers when many other plants are dormant.