Pot Size: 2.5"
Accepted Scientific Name: Cyclamen hederifolium Aiton – Silver Leaf Form
Origin and Habitat
Cyclamen hederifolium is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, occurring from southern France and Italy through the Balkans, Greece, and western Turkey. It naturally grows in deciduous woodlands, rocky slopes, scrub, and among tree roots, often in humus-rich but freely draining soils. This silver-leaf form is selected for its particularly attractive foliage, with leaves displaying extensive silvery coloration and contrasting green markings. Plants are summer-dormant and emerge as temperatures cool in late summer and autumn.
Description
A hardy, long-lived tuberous perennial valued for both its autumn flowers and exceptionally ornamental foliage. The silver-leaf form develops distinctive heart- to ivy-shaped leaves dominated by silvery-grey colouring, often edged or patterned with darker green. Individual leaf patterns vary naturally from plant to plant, making each specimen unique. Delicate swept-back flowers in shades of pink to rose appear primarily in late summer and autumn, often before or alongside the new foliage. Plants generally reach 3–5" tall, gradually developing into colonies 8–12" or more across.
Cultivation
Zone: 5–9
Temperature: Hardy to approximately –20°C once established; prefers cool conditions during active growth.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, gradually forming larger colonies with age.
Soil: Humus-rich, well-drained soil amended with pumice or fine gravel; avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.
Watering: Provide moderate moisture during autumn, winter, and spring growth. Reduce watering as foliage dies back and keep relatively dry during summer dormancy.
Fertilizing: Apply a light feeding in autumn as new growth begins; avoid excessive fertilizer.
Light: Partial shade to bright filtered light. Excellent beneath deciduous trees and shrubs where plants receive winter light and summer shade.
Pests and Diseases: Generally trouble-free. Excess moisture and poor drainage can cause tuber or root rot; slugs and snails may occasionally damage emerging growth.
Propagation
Primarily propagated from seed. Sow fresh seed when possible and allow seedlings several seasons to develop mature tubers. Established plants often self-seed under favourable garden conditions.
