Effective cultivation of Cyclamen plants involves providing optimal conditions to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. This encompasses managing factors such as watering, lighting, temperature, and dormancy periods to ensure the plant’s well-being. For example, proper hydration is vital, requiring the soil to be kept moist but not waterlogged, and water should be applied from the bottom to prevent crown rot.
The successful nurturing of these plants results in extended blooming periods and the preservation of their aesthetic appeal. Historically, Cyclamen have been valued for their unique, upswept petals and delicate fragrance, making them popular choices for indoor decoration and gifts. Sustaining their health ensures continued enjoyment of these characteristics and prevents common issues such as fungal diseases and tuber decay.
The following sections will detail the specific aspects of Cyclamen cultivation, including appropriate watering techniques, ideal lighting conditions, temperature regulation, dormancy management, soil composition preferences, and pest and disease control strategies.
1. Proper Watering
The hydration regimen significantly influences the health and longevity of Cyclamen plants. Incorrect watering practices are a primary cause of Cyclamen decline. Overwatering leads to root rot and tuber decay, while underwatering results in wilting and stunted growth. A balance must be maintained to provide adequate moisture without creating a saturated environment. The frequency of watering varies depending on environmental conditions, pot size, and the plant’s growth stage.
The proper technique involves watering from the base of the pot, allowing the soil to absorb moisture without wetting the crown or foliage. This approach minimizes the risk of fungal diseases. Soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings, but not to the point of complete desiccation. Monitoring the soil moisture level and adjusting watering accordingly constitutes essential care. For example, during active growth and flowering, the plant requires more frequent watering compared to its dormant phase.
Effective watering is a cornerstone of successful Cyclamen cultivation. Understanding the plant’s specific moisture requirements, combined with consistent application of appropriate watering techniques, is crucial. A failure to provide correct hydration undermines all other aspects of care, leading to potentially irreversible damage. Mastering this key component is therefore essential for long-term plant health and the enjoyment of recurring blooms.
2. Adequate Lighting
Appropriate light exposure is a fundamental aspect of Cyclamen cultivation. Insufficient or excessive light significantly impacts the plant’s health, bloom production, and overall vitality. Recognizing and providing the ideal light conditions is, therefore, integral to successful Cyclamen care.
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Intensity and Bloom Production
Light intensity directly correlates with the plant’s ability to produce flowers. Cyclamen require bright, indirect light to stimulate blooming. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth, reduced flower production, and faded foliage color. Conversely, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and damage the plant. Understanding the nuances of light intensity ensures optimal blooming potential.
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Photoperiod and Dormancy
Photoperiod, the duration of light exposure, also influences Cyclamen behavior, particularly concerning dormancy. As daylight hours shorten, the plant naturally enters a resting phase. While not solely dependent on photoperiod, reduced light can contribute to dormancy initiation. Manipulating light exposure can subtly impact the timing of this rest period, but consistency with the natural seasonal cycle is generally advised.
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Direction and Leaf Orientation
The direction of light exposure affects the plant’s growth pattern. Cyclamen tend to orient their leaves towards the light source. Regular rotation of the plant ensures even growth and prevents it from becoming lopsided. This practice distributes light exposure evenly across the foliage, promoting balanced development.
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Artificial Lighting Supplementation
In environments with limited natural light, supplemental artificial lighting can be employed. Full-spectrum grow lights provide the necessary wavelengths for photosynthesis and can compensate for insufficient sunlight, particularly during winter months. However, careful consideration of light intensity and duration is essential to avoid overheating or damaging the plant. Using artificial light should mimic natural daylight patterns as closely as possible.
The interplay between light intensity, photoperiod, direction, and the potential need for artificial supplementation underscores the complexity of light management in Cyclamen care. Optimizing these factors facilitates healthy growth, abundant flowering, and overall plant well-being. Consistent monitoring and adjustments based on the plant’s response are key to achieving and maintaining appropriate light levels.
3. Cool temperatures
Maintaining appropriate temperatures is paramount to the successful cultivation of Cyclamen plants. Elevated temperatures induce dormancy prematurely, reduce flowering, and predispose the plant to pest infestations. Sustained exposure to warm conditions inhibits healthy growth and shortens the plant’s lifespan. Understanding the significance of temperature regulation is therefore crucial for effective care.
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Ideal Temperature Range and Physiological Processes
Cyclamen thrive in a temperature range of 60-65F (15-18C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. These temperatures support optimal photosynthetic rates, nutrient uptake, and flower development. Higher temperatures disrupt these processes, leading to decreased vigor and bloom quality. The cooler nighttime temperatures are especially important as they mimic the plant’s natural environment and help prevent diseases.
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Temperature Fluctuations and Stress Response
Sudden temperature fluctuations can induce stress, causing leaf drop and bud abscission. Consistent environmental conditions minimize stress and promote stable growth. Avoiding placing Cyclamen near drafts, heating vents, or sunny windows is crucial to maintaining stable temperatures. Gradual acclimation to temperature changes reduces the risk of adverse reactions.
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Impact on Dormancy
While warmer temperatures naturally trigger dormancy, excessively high temperatures accelerate this process prematurely. Maintaining cool temperatures during the active growing season extends the blooming period and delays the onset of dormancy. Conversely, if dormancy is desired, a controlled increase in temperature can encourage the plant to enter its resting phase. However, this should be done gradually and with consideration for the plant’s overall health.
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Humidity and Temperature Interplay
The impact of temperature is inextricably linked to humidity. Cool, dry air can dehydrate the plant, even at optimal temperatures. Conversely, cool, humid air can promote fungal diseases. Maintaining a balance between temperature and humidity is essential. Increasing air circulation and avoiding overly humid conditions helps prevent fungal issues, while providing adequate humidity prevents desiccation, especially in drier climates.
In summary, maintaining cool temperatures is a critical component of successful Cyclamen care. The ideal temperature range, avoidance of fluctuations, influence on dormancy, and interplay with humidity levels all contribute to the plant’s overall health and longevity. Attentive monitoring and management of temperature-related factors are essential for maximizing bloom production and preventing common cultivation issues.
4. Dormancy period
The dormancy period is an integral phase in the life cycle of Cyclamen and significantly impacts the approach to its cultivation. As a geophytic perennial, Cyclamen naturally experiences a period of reduced metabolic activity, typically following the flowering season. This dormancy is characterized by the yellowing and eventual loss of foliage, signaling a cessation of active growth. Understanding and accommodating this dormancy period is critical; inappropriate interventions during this phase can compromise the plant’s ability to regenerate and bloom in subsequent seasons.
During dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or ceased altogether, depending on the species and prevailing environmental conditions. The tuber, the plant’s storage organ, should be kept relatively dry to prevent rot. Positioning the pot in a cool, shaded location further supports the plant’s rest. This period allows the Cyclamen to conserve energy and prepare for renewed growth. Premature resumption of watering or exposure to overly warm temperatures can disrupt the dormancy cycle, resulting in weak growth or failure to bloom. For example, forcing a dormant Cyclamen persicum into active growth mid-summer can lead to foliage that is spindly and flowers that are sparse or absent. Conversely, respecting the dormancy cycle and gradually reintroducing water and light as cooler temperatures return in the autumn promotes robust regrowth.
In conclusion, recognizing the dormancy period as a natural and necessary part of the Cyclamen life cycle is fundamental to its successful cultivation. Implementing appropriate care adjustmentsprimarily reducing watering and providing a cool, shaded environmentduring this phase ensures the plant’s long-term health and continued floral display. Mismanagement of this dormant phase represents a significant challenge in Cyclamen care, highlighting the importance of understanding the plant’s seasonal rhythms. This understanding enables the cultivator to provide the conditions conducive to sustained vitality.
5. Well-draining soil
The selection and maintenance of well-draining soil is a critical aspect of Cyclamen cultivation. Soil composition directly impacts root health, water retention, and nutrient availability, thereby influencing the plant’s overall vigor and blooming potential. Inadequate drainage leads to root rot and fungal diseases, while excessively rapid drainage deprives the plant of essential moisture and nutrients. Proper soil selection is, therefore, paramount.
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Composition and Aeration
Well-draining soil for Cyclamen should be a porous mixture that allows for adequate aeration around the roots. A common blend includes peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or bark. This combination provides sufficient moisture retention while preventing waterlogging. The air pockets created by perlite and coarse materials facilitate gas exchange, crucial for root respiration and nutrient uptake. Compacted soil restricts aeration, leading to anaerobic conditions and root dysfunction. The composition of well-draining soil directly affects the health of the plant.
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pH Level and Nutrient Availability
The pH of the soil influences the availability of essential nutrients. Cyclamen prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, typically between 6.0 and 7.0. A pH outside this range can hinder the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients such as iron, phosphorus, and magnesium, even if they are present in the soil. Regular soil testing and appropriate amendments, such as lime or sulfur, can adjust the pH to the optimal level, ensuring nutrient availability and healthy growth. Maintaining the proper pH is essential for the effective uptake of the nutrients required for flower production.
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Water Retention and Drainage Balance
Achieving the correct balance between water retention and drainage is essential. The soil should retain enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated but drain quickly enough to prevent water from accumulating around the tuber. Excess water encourages fungal growth and root decay. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, improves water retention and drainage. The ideal soil should feel moist to the touch but not soggy. This balance directly impacts the health and longevity of the plant.
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Sterility and Disease Prevention
The use of sterile or pasteurized soil is recommended to prevent the introduction of soilborne diseases. Pathogens, such as Pythium and Phytophthora, can cause root rot and significantly damage or kill Cyclamen. Sterilizing the soil eliminates these pathogens, providing a disease-free environment for the plant to thrive. Alternatively, using commercially available potting mixes specifically formulated for Cyclamen minimizes the risk of introducing harmful organisms. Disease prevention begins with soil selection.
The significance of well-draining soil in Cyclamen care extends beyond mere provision of physical support. It fundamentally influences root health, nutrient availability, water management, and disease prevention. Attentive selection and maintenance of appropriate soil composition are, therefore, essential practices in ensuring the plant’s sustained health and abundant floral display. Employing these methods helps to realize the full aesthetic potential of this plant.
6. Fertilization schedule
A carefully planned fertilization schedule directly contributes to successful Cyclamen cultivation. Nutrient availability significantly impacts floral production, foliage development, and overall plant health. An inappropriate fertilization regimen, whether characterized by over- or under-application of nutrients, can negatively affect the plant’s vigor and blooming capacity. A well-defined fertilization schedule, tailored to the Cyclamen‘s specific needs, is therefore integral to ensuring its optimal growth and aesthetic appeal. For instance, during active growth and flowering, a Cyclamen benefits from balanced fertilizer applications to support increased nutrient demand. Conversely, over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, damaging roots and hindering nutrient absorption, an outcome detrimental to long-term health.
The choice of fertilizer type is also crucial. A fertilizer formulated for flowering plants, typically with a higher phosphorus content, promotes abundant bloom production. Controlled-release fertilizers provide a steady supply of nutrients over an extended period, reducing the risk of over-fertilization and simplifying the feeding schedule. Regular monitoring of the plant’s response to fertilization is essential; signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, necessitate adjustments to the fertilization schedule. An example of this adaptation would be the addition of chelated iron to address iron deficiency, a common issue in Cyclamen grown in alkaline soils. Furthermore, fertilization should be significantly reduced or suspended entirely during the dormancy period, as the plant’s nutrient requirements are minimal at this stage. Resuming fertilization prematurely can disrupt the dormancy cycle and negatively affect subsequent growth.
In summary, a thoughtfully designed and implemented fertilization schedule constitutes a vital component of comprehensive Cyclamen care. It requires careful consideration of nutrient needs, fertilizer type, application frequency, and the plant’s seasonal growth cycle. Challenges often arise from misinterpreting the plant’s needs, leading to either under- or over-fertilization. Adherence to a well-structured schedule, combined with keen observation and adaptation to the plant’s specific requirements, contributes to sustained health and abundant, recurring blooms, ultimately fulfilling the cultivator’s objective.
7. Humidity control
Appropriate humidity is a crucial environmental factor in the successful maintenance of Cyclamen plants. The interaction between humidity and other care aspects, such as watering and air circulation, dictates the plant’s health and resistance to disease. Maintaining an optimal humidity level is essential to mimic the Cyclamen‘s natural environment and ensure vigorous growth.
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Ideal Humidity Range and Physiological Impact
Cyclamen thrive in moderate humidity levels, typically between 40% and 60%. Low humidity can lead to rapid water loss from the leaves, resulting in wilting and increased susceptibility to pests. Conversely, excessively high humidity fosters fungal diseases such as botrytis, commonly known as gray mold. The plant’s physiological processes, including photosynthesis and transpiration, are directly influenced by ambient humidity. Monitoring and adjusting humidity levels contributes to the plant’s overall health and vitality.
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Methods for Humidity Augmentation
Several methods can be employed to increase humidity around Cyclamen plants, particularly in drier environments. Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water increases local humidity as the water evaporates. Grouping plants together also creates a more humid microclimate. Humidifiers can provide consistent and controllable humidity augmentation, especially in indoor settings. Misting the plant is generally discouraged, as prolonged leaf wetness promotes fungal growth. Selecting an appropriate method and implementing it carefully mitigates the risks associated with improper humidity levels.
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Ventilation and Humidity Management
Adequate ventilation is crucial in conjunction with humidity control. Stagnant, humid air creates an ideal environment for fungal pathogens. Ensuring sufficient air circulation around the plant helps to prevent moisture buildup on the leaves and reduces the risk of disease. Opening windows periodically or using a small fan to gently circulate the air provides the necessary ventilation without causing excessive dryness. Balancing humidity augmentation with effective ventilation is critical for maintaining plant health. The interplay between ventilation and humidity directly affects the incidence of fungal diseases.
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Seasonal Adjustments in Humidity Control
Humidity requirements may vary seasonally. During winter months, when indoor heating systems reduce ambient humidity, supplemental humidification may be necessary. In summer, increased ventilation may be required to prevent excessive humidity buildup. Monitoring the plant’s response to seasonal changes and adjusting humidity control strategies accordingly is essential for sustained health. Paying attention to seasonal shifts in environmental conditions ensures consistent optimal humidity levels.
The intricacies of humidity management are interwoven with other facets of Cyclamen cultivation. Proper watering, adequate air circulation, and appropriate temperature all interact with humidity to determine the plant’s well-being. Consistent monitoring, adaptive strategies, and consideration of seasonal variations contribute to a cultivation environment that supports robust growth and abundant flowering. Successful integration of humidity control ensures that the plant receives the optimal environmental conditions conducive to long-term health and aesthetic appeal.
8. Pest management
Effective pest management is an indispensable component of Cyclamen cultivation. The prevention and control of infestations are crucial for maintaining plant health, maximizing bloom production, and preserving aesthetic appeal. A proactive approach to pest management minimizes the risk of significant damage and avoids the need for aggressive interventions, ensuring the long-term well-being of the Cyclamen.
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Early Detection and Identification
Regular inspection of Cyclamen plants for signs of pest infestation is essential. Early detection allows for prompt intervention, preventing widespread damage. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and Cyclamen mites. Identifying the specific pest is critical for selecting the appropriate control method. Careful observation and accurate identification are foundational to effective pest management. For example, noticing the characteristic webbing of spider mites allows for immediate treatment before the infestation becomes severe.
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Environmental Controls and Prevention
Maintaining optimal environmental conditions can significantly reduce the risk of pest infestations. Proper air circulation, adequate lighting, and appropriate humidity levels create an environment less conducive to pest proliferation. Overwatering and poor drainage can weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to attack. For instance, ensuring good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases and reduces the likelihood of aphid infestations. Preventive measures are often more effective than reactive treatments.
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Biological Control Methods
The use of beneficial insects and other biological control agents offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pest management. Introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs or predatory mites, can effectively control pest populations without the use of harsh chemicals. Biological control is particularly useful in greenhouse settings, where enclosed environments limit the dispersal of beneficial organisms. For example, releasing predatory mites can control spider mite populations on Cyclamen plants. The use of biological controls aligns with a holistic approach to plant care.
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Chemical Control Options
When necessary, chemical control options can be employed to manage severe pest infestations. However, the use of pesticides should be a last resort, as they can harm beneficial insects and disrupt the ecosystem. Selecting pesticides specifically formulated for the target pest and following application instructions carefully minimizes the risk of unintended consequences. Systemic insecticides, which are absorbed by the plant, can provide long-lasting protection against pests. For example, applying a systemic insecticide can control Cyclamen mite infestations. Responsible use of chemical controls is essential to protect the plant and the environment.
The integration of these pest management facets is crucial for comprehensive Cyclamen care. Early detection, environmental controls, biological methods, and, when necessary, judicious use of chemical controls contribute to a holistic strategy that minimizes the impact of pests on plant health and aesthetic appeal. Proactive pest management safeguards the investment in Cyclamen cultivation, ensuring sustained vitality and abundant blooming.
9. Air circulation
Air circulation represents a critical environmental factor impacting Cyclamen health and vigor. Adequate airflow mitigates several risks associated with indoor cultivation, directly influencing disease incidence, pest proliferation, and overall plant robustness. Understanding the specific role of air circulation is therefore paramount for effective Cyclamen care.
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Disease Prevention
Stagnant air fosters the development of fungal diseases, such as botrytis (gray mold), which thrive in humid environments. Adequate air circulation reduces leaf surface moisture, inhibiting fungal spore germination and subsequent infection. For instance, placing a small fan near a Cyclamen plant significantly lowers the risk of fungal diseases, especially in enclosed spaces with limited natural airflow. Proper air circulation functions as a preventative measure against common Cyclamen ailments.
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Pest Deterrence
Many common Cyclamen pests, including aphids and spider mites, favor sheltered conditions with minimal air movement. Increased air circulation disrupts their ability to establish colonies, making it more difficult for them to feed and reproduce. Commercial growers routinely use fans to deter pest infestations in greenhouses, demonstrating the efficacy of this approach. Sufficient airflow reduces the likelihood of pest outbreaks, minimizing the need for chemical interventions.
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Humidity Regulation
Air circulation plays a key role in managing humidity levels around Cyclamen plants. Excessive humidity promotes fungal growth and hinders transpiration, while low humidity can lead to dehydration. Adequate airflow helps to regulate humidity, preventing both extremes. In enclosed environments, air circulation is essential for maintaining optimal humidity, contributing to plant vitality. Proper ventilation complements humidity control measures, ensuring a balanced environment.
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Carbon Dioxide Replenishment
Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, requires carbon dioxide. In enclosed spaces, carbon dioxide levels can become depleted, limiting photosynthetic efficiency. Air circulation replenishes carbon dioxide, promoting healthy growth and flower production. While typically less of a concern than disease or pest control, ensuring adequate carbon dioxide availability through proper ventilation supports optimal plant function. Regular air exchange contributes to overall plant well-being.
The benefits of proper air circulation extend beyond individual aspects of Cyclamen care. By addressing disease prevention, pest deterrence, humidity regulation, and carbon dioxide replenishment, adequate airflow fosters a healthier and more resilient plant. Conversely, neglecting air circulation creates an environment conducive to various problems, undermining the efforts taken in other areas of care. Air circulation, therefore, represents a foundational element in the holistic cultivation of Cyclamen plants, demanding consistent attention to ensure their sustained health and aesthetic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the cultivation of Cyclamen plants, providing concise answers to assist in achieving successful growth and blooming.
Question 1: What constitutes proper watering technique for Cyclamen?
The recommended method involves watering from the base of the pot, allowing the soil to absorb moisture without wetting the crown or foliage. This minimizes the risk of fungal diseases and tuber rot. Water should be applied until the soil is thoroughly moistened, and excess water should be allowed to drain away.
Question 2: What are the optimal lighting conditions for Cyclamen?
Cyclamen thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light reduces bloom production. Placing the plant near an east-facing window or providing filtered sunlight ensures adequate light exposure.
Question 3: What is the ideal temperature range for Cyclamen?
Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures, ideally between 60-65F (15-18C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid placing plants near heat sources or in drafts, as temperature fluctuations can induce stress.
Question 4: When and how should Cyclamen be fertilized?
Fertilize Cyclamen during active growth and flowering with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply fertilizer every two to four weeks. Reduce or suspend fertilization during the dormancy period.
Question 5: What are the signs of overwatering in Cyclamen?
Symptoms of overwatering include yellowing leaves, wilting despite moist soil, and a soft, mushy tuber. If overwatering is suspected, allow the soil to dry out before watering again and ensure proper drainage.
Question 6: How should the dormancy period of Cyclamen be managed?
As the plant enters dormancy, characterized by yellowing leaves and reduced growth, gradually reduce watering. Once the foliage has completely withered, cease watering and store the tuber in a cool, dry location. Resume watering as new growth emerges in the fall.
These answers provide fundamental guidance for Cyclamen cultivation. Consistent application of these principles fosters plant health and maximizes floral display.
The subsequent section will explore common challenges encountered in Cyclamen cultivation and offer practical solutions for addressing these issues.
How to Take Care Cyclamen
The following encapsulates concise and practical guidance for Cyclamen cultivation. Implementation of these tips will enhance plant health, increase flowering potential, and prolong the lifespan of the plant.
Tip 1: Employ Bottom Watering Techniques. Direct irrigation of foliage and the crown of the Cyclamen fosters fungal disease development. Submerge the pot’s base in water, allowing capillary action to saturate the soil. This method minimizes moisture accumulation on susceptible plant parts.
Tip 2: Optimize Ambient Temperature. Maintain a cool environment, ideally between 60F and 65F (15C to 18C). Elevated temperatures induce dormancy and diminish floral display. Locating the plant in a cool room or near a north-facing window promotes extended blooming.
Tip 3: Provide Adequate, Indirect Illumination. Cyclamen necessitates bright, yet diffused, light exposure. Direct sunlight scorches foliage. A location near an east-facing window provides optimal light intensity without causing damage. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure uniform light distribution.
Tip 4: Implement Strategic Fertilization. During active growth and flowering, utilize a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Over-fertilization leads to salt accumulation and root damage. Suspend fertilization during dormancy.
Tip 5: Respect the Dormancy Period. Upon cessation of blooming and leaf senescence, gradually reduce watering. Allow the tuber to rest in a cool, dry location. Premature resumption of watering disrupts the dormancy cycle. Recognize dormancy as a natural and necessary phase.
Tip 6: Monitor for Pest Infestation. Regularly inspect the foliage for indications of pests, such as aphids or spider mites. Early detection permits timely intervention, minimizing damage. Employ insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Tip 7: Ensure Well-Draining Substrate. Cyclamen necessitate a porous soil composition to prevent root rot. Utilize a potting mix comprising peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Compacted soil impedes drainage and fosters anaerobic conditions.
Adherence to these guidelines promotes Cyclamen vitality and floral abundance. Consistent application of these principles facilitates successful cultivation and enhances aesthetic enjoyment.
The concluding section summarizes key considerations for long-term Cyclamen maintenance and underscores the significance of consistent care.
Conclusion
The preceding discussion has elucidated the critical elements involved in successful Cyclamen cultivation. From appropriate watering techniques and optimal lighting conditions to strategic fertilization and dormancy management, each aspect significantly contributes to the plant’s health and floral display. Neglecting any of these factors diminishes the potential for vigorous growth and long-term vitality. Maintaining well-draining soil, controlling humidity, ensuring adequate air circulation, and implementing proactive pest management strategies collectively foster an environment conducive to Cyclamen thriving.
Consistent application of these guidelines enables the sustained enjoyment of Cyclamen‘s aesthetic appeal. Mastery of these cultivation techniques requires diligence and attentiveness to the plant’s specific needs. A comprehensive understanding of each component and the integration within a holistic approach not only promotes long-term health but also enhances the intrinsic beauty of this unique species. Therefore, diligent adherence to these practices is paramount for those seeking to cultivate robust and floriferous Cyclamen plants.