Sowbread
Cyclamen hederifoliumUSDA | Grow Zone
5-9Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Partial shade
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 50-70%
- Temperature
- 60-70°F
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall
- Pets
- Toxic to pets and humans
Cyclamen hederifolium, commonly known as Sowbread, is a charming perennial native to Europe. Its unique heart-shaped leaves and vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and indoor spaces.
Ask Vesper about Sowbread
Ideal temperature
60-70°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall
- Plant apart
- 12-18 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Cyclamen hederifolium prefers to be kept slightly moist but not soggy.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy in summer. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight each day.
Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place it in a location where it can enjoy filtered light, such as under a tree or in a north-facing window.
Soil
Cyclamen hederifolium prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil, perlite, and leaf mold is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally around 50-70%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the leaves or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
Cyclamen hederifolium prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the growing season and can tolerate down to 40°F (4°C) in winter.
It is hardy in zones 5-9, but avoid exposing it to extreme heat.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, diluted to half strength.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, but avoid fertilizing during dormancy. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Pruning
Pruning is minimal for Cyclamen hederifolium.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to promote air circulation and prevent disease. Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the tuber outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excess soil moisture. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant, refresh the soil, and replant at the same depth.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through seed or division.
For seeds, collect them in late summer and sow them in a well-draining mix. Keep them moist and in a cool location until germination, which can take several months. For division, carefully separate tubers in late summer when the plant is dormant.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Adjust watering habits to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings and ensure adequate light exposure.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Usually a result of under-watering or high temperatures.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure the plant is in a cooler location away from direct heat sources.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by overly wet soil and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and reduce watering frequency.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Often due to low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and ensure consistent watering.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Can occur if the plant is stressed or weakened.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, Cyclamen hederifolium is actively growing. Water regularly and fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support growth.
Summer
During summer, the plant goes dormant. Reduce watering significantly and allow the leaves to die back naturally.
Fall
In fall, as temperatures cool, resume regular watering and fertilizing to encourage new growth.
Winter
Winter is the active growth period. Keep the plant in a cool location, maintain moisture, and ensure it receives adequate light.
Toxicity & Safety
Cyclamen hederifolium is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The tubers are particularly toxic, causing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea in pets. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Good to know
How often should I water my Cyclamen hederifolium?
Water your Cyclamen when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, and reduce watering during dormancy.
Why are my Cyclamen leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure the plant receives adequate indirect sunlight.
What type of soil is best for Cyclamen hederifolium?
A well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. A combination of potting soil, perlite, and leaf mold works well.
Can I grow Cyclamen hederifolium indoors?
Yes, Cyclamen can be grown indoors, provided they receive sufficient indirect light and are kept in cooler temperatures.
How do I propagate Cyclamen hederifolium?
You can propagate Cyclamen by seeds or division. For seeds, sow them in a well-draining mix in late summer. For division, separate tubers in late summer when dormant.
What temperature is ideal for Cyclamen hederifolium?
This plant thrives in temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and can tolerate down to 40°F (4°C) during winter.
Is Cyclamen hederifolium toxic to pets?
Yes, Cyclamen is toxic to pets, especially the tubers, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
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