Cyclamen hederifolium

ivyleaf cyclamen

Deciduous, Herbaceous Bulb / Corm / Tuber

Outstanding Qualities
Ivyleaf cyclamen is a fine perennial. More vigorous and larger growing than Cyclamen coum, it is also an exceptionally easy plant to grow. The plants bloom in September and October with generally pink flowers, although white flowers do occur, and emerge in profusion before the foliage. Some seeds strains are slightly fragrant. As flowering comes to an end in late October, the handsome ivy-like foliage begins to emerge. The silver pattern varies widely. There are solid silver-leaved forms available from specialty nurseries and seed houses. Cyclamen hederifolium is a tuberous plant and old established tubers often sit on top of the ground. Like Cyclamen coum this C. hederifolium is drought tolerant. It is happy growing under deciduous trees and shrubs and will naturalize by seed.

Culture Notes
This hardy fall bloomer will grow well in light to deep shade. Plant it in a well-drained or sandy soil. Once established it is drought tolerant. Seed is scattered around the garden by ants; watch for the tiny seedlings to sprout in late fall.
—Courtesy Great Plant Picks

Growing Conditions

Zone: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Exposure: Full Shade

Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, Low, Low Water / No Water, Winter Wet / Summer Dry

Soil: Well-drained

Description

Size: 3 - 6 tall x 12 - 18 wide
Shape / Form: Low and Spreading
Foliage Texture: Medium
Foliage Quality: Medium

Features: Attractive Foliage, Attracts Bees, Drought-tolerant / Water wise, Dwarf / Compact Plant, Flowers, Long Blooming, Low Maintenance, Winter Interest

Foliage Color: Green, Silver / Gray, Variegated

Flower Color: Pink
Bloom Season: Fall, Late Fall / Early Winter


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Edging, Groundcover, Hell Strip, Massed, Naturalize, Rock Garden, Small Gardens
Special Situations: Deer Resistant
Wildlife: Bees, Deer Resistant

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Winter, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes
Position / Role: front of border, ground hugger, continuity creator, finishing touches
Plant Behavior: Naturalizes, Re-seeds in some conditions
Collections: Great Plant Pick

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low


Suitable Substitutes

Cyclamen coum | Persian violet

Perfect Partners

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nanus' | Dwarf Mondo Grass