Most of us know the Cyclamen as a classic indoor plant, but did you know this family of hardy little perennials has members that can live outdoors year-round? Whether in your garden, on the balcony, or decorating the patio, these plants are tougher than they look. Even your indoor varieties will thank you for a little “summer vacation” in a shady spot outside!
Hardy Cyclamen Varieties
If you’re looking for plants that can handle the frost, here are the top contenders for your garden:
- The Eastern Sowbread (Spring Cyclamen)
- The European Cyclamen (Summer Cyclamen)
- The Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen (Autumn Cyclamen)
While they bloom at different times, they all share that signature look: heart-shaped, fleshy, dark green leaves often marbled with beautiful silver patterns. Their flowers come in lovely shades of red, pink, and crisp white.
The Eastern Sowbread (Spring Cyclamen)
This variety is winter-green and brightens up the garden from February to March. You’ll want to plant the tubers in September—just make sure the rounded side is facing up. These little guys love a shady or semi-shady spot under hedges or taller perennials. They prefer humus-rich, limey soil that stays moist but never soggy. Like most plants, they hate “wet feet” (waterlogging). Once the flowers fade, the plant pulls its foliage back and rests until fall.
The European Cyclamen (Summer Cyclamen)
This one shows off its blooms between July and August. The leaves stay green through the winter and into the following spring before the plant goes into its dormant phase. Much like its cousins, it needs a sheltered, semi-shady home. When planting the flat tubers, place them about 4 inches deep in loose, consistently moist soil with the rounded side facing up.
The Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen (Autumn Cyclamen)
The Autumn Cyclamen blooms from August all the way to October. Interestingly, the leaves grow *after* the flowers appear, staying green all winter and only disappearing around mid-year. As with all hardy varieties, it thrives in semi-shade under shrubs or perennials. Plant the tuber 4 inches deep in loose, rich soil. Pro tip: For this specific variety, the rounded side actually faces *down* because the roots grow from the top! You’ll see tiny flowers appear in late August that last until the first frost. In April, the plant goes dormant until new buds pop up in late summer.
Indoor Cyclamen Care
Don’t toss your indoor Cyclamen once the flowers fade! They just need a nap. A shady, protected spot in the garden is the perfect “spa retreat” for them to recharge their energy for the next blooming cycle. Just keep an eye on the thermometer—as soon as temperatures dip below 60°F (15°C), it’s time to bring your leafy friend back inside to its usual spot.
