Cyclamen cilicium
Care, watering, light and tips for Cyclamen cilicium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Primulaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Cyclamen cilicium
Cyclamen cilicium, also known as Cilician cyclamen, is a charming small tuberous plant from the Primulaceae family, native to the mountainous regions of southern Turkey. Its delicate, honey-scented flowers, ranging from pure white to pale pink, appear in autumn, often before or concurrently with its attractive heart-shaped leaves featuring silver markings. It is ideal for rock gardens, under deciduous trees, or in pots on shady patios, providing color and fragrance when other plants are fading.
Native range
Eastern Mediterranean region: mainly southern Turkey.
Care tips
It prefers a location with partial shade or filtered light, avoiding intense direct sunlight. Watering should be moderate during the active growing period (autumn-winter), allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry out between waterings, and almost non-existent during its summer dormancy. It requires well-draining, organically rich soil, such as a bulb mix or garden soil amended with coarse sand and compost. A common mistake is overwatering during dormancy, which can lead to tuber rot.
How to save a dying Cyclamen cilicium
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft leaves, drooping stems. Wilted or rotting flowers. Indicates overwatering.
- First aid
- Remove damaged flowers and leaves. Check soil; if wet, stop watering. Place in a cool, well-ventilated spot.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main killer. Also excessive heat and lack of good air circulation.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! If the tuber is not soft and rotten. With proper drainage and moderate watering, it can recover.