Alpine cyclamen
Cyclamen purpurascens · Primulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alpine cyclamen: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green marbled with silver
- Blooming
- Summer to autumn (July to October)
- Adult size
- 4 to 6 inches tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-4°F)
- Origin
- Alps and Apennines
- Soil type
- Well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but without waterlogging, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter, keeping the substrate just slightly moist. Water at the base to prevent tuber rot.
Light exposure
Prefer shaded to partial shade in summer, where coolness dominates. In winter, more light is beneficial. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which weakens the plant.
Soil and substrate
Plant in rich potting mix enriched with decomposed leaves and coarse sand to ensure drainage. A slightly acidic pH (6 to 6.5) is ideal. Avoid heavy, compacted soils.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer monthly during growth (spring and summer). Stop fertilizing during dormancy. Prefer light organic feeding rather than excessive mineral fertilizer.
Pruning and maintenance
No real pruning necessary. Simply remove yellowed leaves and faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain aesthetics.
Diseases and pests
Watch for tuber rot in case of excess water. Spider mites can appear in dry conditions. Good drainage and regular aeration prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Alpine cyclamen is one of the rare cyclamen species to flower in summer, making it invaluable for mountain gardens. The Swiss Alps consider it an emblematic flower that adorns alpine meadows from 3,300 feet elevation onward. Its tubers once served as a food source for local populations, though this use is now abandoned.
Where to buy it
Plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowering. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from September to November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.