How to Grow Cyclamen for Beautiful Winter Colour – Complete UK Guide

When many of our summer flowers have finished and the garden begins settling down for winter, cyclamen can provide a welcome splash of colour.

Their delicate, swept-back flowers appear in beautiful shades of pink, white, purple and red, often standing above attractive patterned leaves.

They’re particularly useful for brightening shaded garden borders, containers, woodland-style planting areas and sheltered spaces around the home.

But one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make is assuming every cyclamen plant is equally hardy.

Some varieties are perfectly suited to growing outdoors in UK gardens, while others are better treated as cool indoor plants or seasonal displays.

Here at Gardening with Ben, we’re looking at how to grow cyclamen successfully, which varieties to choose, when to plant them, how to look after them through winter and what to do when their leaves begin dying back.

Whether you’ve purchased a colourful cyclamen from a garden centre or want to establish a beautiful carpet of hardy cyclamen beneath your shrubs, this complete guide will help you get started.

What Are Cyclamen?

Cyclamen are flowering plants that grow from underground tubers.

They belong to the primrose family, Primulaceae, and are valued for their distinctive flowers and attractive foliage.

Many cyclamen produce heart-shaped leaves with silver or marbled markings.

Their flowers have petals that curve backwards, giving them a delicate and unusual appearance.

Different species flower at different times of year.

Some bloom in autumn, others during winter or early spring, and certain types are grown mainly as indoor flowering plants.

Cyclamen are often described as bulbs, but botanically they grow from tubers rather than true bulbs.

Understanding this distinction is useful because the tubers can be vulnerable to rotting if planted incorrectly or kept too wet.

Are Cyclamen Hardy in the UK?

This is one of the most important questions to answer before planting cyclamen outdoors.

Some species are hardy enough to survive typical UK winters, particularly when grown in suitable, well-drained conditions.

Others are damaged by frost.

Hardy Garden Cyclamen

Two of the most useful hardy species for UK gardens are:

• Cyclamen hederifolium – autumn-flowering cyclamen.
• Cyclamen coum – winter- to early-spring-flowering cyclamen.

Both can establish successfully in sheltered garden positions and may gradually spread over time.

Florist’s Cyclamen

The colourful cyclamen commonly sold as indoor plants are usually cultivars derived from Cyclamen persicum.

These are generally less frost tolerant than hardy garden species.

Although they may be displayed outdoors during mild autumn weather, they should not be relied upon to survive freezing temperatures.

Check the Plant Label

Before buying cyclamen for your garden, always check the species name and hardiness information.

A plant simply labelled “cyclamen” may not be suitable for permanent outdoor planting.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you want cyclamen that return year after year in your garden, choose properly identified hardy species rather than relying on florist’s cyclamen.

The Best Cyclamen Varieties for UK Gardens

Choosing the correct species is the secret to creating reliable displays.

Cyclamen hederifolium – Autumn Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium is one of the easiest hardy cyclamen to establish in suitable UK gardens.

Its flowers usually appear from late summer into autumn.

The flowers are commonly pink or white and may emerge before the leaves.

As flowering continues, attractive patterned foliage develops.

The leaves often remain through winter before dying back during late spring or early summer.

This species is particularly useful beneath deciduous trees and shrubs.

Once established, it can tolerate relatively dry summer conditions.

Cyclamen coum – Winter and Early Spring Cyclamen

Cyclamen coum is another excellent hardy species.

It typically flowers from winter into early spring, depending on local conditions.

The flowers are often rounded and appear in shades of pink, magenta or white.

Its leaves may be plain green or beautifully patterned.

Cyclamen coum works well in shaded borders, beneath deciduous shrubs and alongside other early-flowering plants.

When grown in suitable conditions, it can gradually form attractive colonies.

Cyclamen persicum – Florist’s Cyclamen

Cyclamen persicum and its cultivated varieties are commonly sold in garden centres, supermarkets and florists.

They produce colourful flowers during the cooler months.

However, they’re usually grown as indoor or protected plants in the UK.

They prefer bright conditions without strong direct sunlight and generally perform better in cool rooms than beside hot radiators.

They need protection from frost.

When Do Cyclamen Flower in the UK?

Flowering time depends on the species.

Cyclamen type	Typical flowering period
Cyclamen hederifolium	Late summer to autumn
Cyclamen coum	Winter to early spring
Cyclamen persicum cultivars	Often autumn through spring under suitable indoor conditions

These are approximate periods.

Weather, growing conditions and the particular cultivar can affect when flowers appear.

By combining Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum, you can create successive displays from autumn into early spring.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Cyclamen?

Most hardy garden cyclamen perform particularly well in partial shade.

In their natural habitats, many grow beneath trees and shrubs where they receive seasonal light and shelter.

Planting Cyclamen Beneath Trees

Deciduous trees can provide excellent growing conditions.

During autumn and winter, when the trees have lost their leaves, more light reaches the ground.

During summer, the tree canopy provides shade while cyclamen are often dormant.

Growing Cyclamen Beneath Shrubs

Cyclamen can look beautiful beneath established shrubs, provided the soil isn’t excessively wet.

They work particularly well in informal woodland-style gardens.

Can Cyclamen Grow in Full Sun?

Some hardy cyclamen tolerate sun when moisture and soil conditions are suitable.

However, partial shade is generally a safer starting point, particularly in exposed gardens.

Avoid planting them in positions where the soil becomes waterlogged.

Can Cyclamen Grow in Heavy Clay?

Heavy clay can be challenging because cyclamen tubers may rot in persistently wet soil.

Improve drainage where possible, or consider growing cyclamen in raised beds or containers.

What Soil Do Cyclamen Prefer?

Cyclamen generally prefer soil that drains freely.

They dislike sitting in waterlogged conditions, particularly while dormant.

For garden planting, aim for soil with a good structure and adequate drainage.

Adding well-rotted organic matter can help improve some soils.

However, avoid creating a planting hole filled with loose compost surrounded by heavy, poorly draining clay, as this can trap water.

Do Cyclamen Need Acidic Soil?

Hardy cyclamen can grow in a range of suitable garden soils.

Many tolerate neutral to alkaline conditions.

The exact preferences vary by species.

For most gardeners, good drainage and the correct planting position are more important than trying to make major changes to soil pH.

When Should You Plant Cyclamen in the UK?

Container-grown hardy cyclamen can be planted when the soil is workable and conditions are suitable.

Autumn is particularly popular because garden centres often have flowering plants available.

Early spring can also be suitable.

Planting Dormant Tubers

Dormant tubers are sometimes sold during late summer or autumn.

Plant them as soon as practical after purchase because prolonged dry storage can reduce their chances of establishing.

Tubers sold dry may be slower to establish than healthy container-grown plants.

Avoid Waterlogged or Frozen Soil

Never force planting when the ground is frozen or saturated.

Wait until conditions improve.

How to Plant Hardy Cyclamen Step by Step

Planting cyclamen correctly gives them the best chance of returning year after year.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Position

Select a sheltered area with partial shade and well-drained soil.

Avoid places where water regularly collects.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground

Remove weeds and loosen the soil carefully.

Incorporate suitable organic matter where needed.

Step 3: Check the Planting Depth

For container-grown cyclamen, plant at approximately the same depth they were growing in the pot.

For dormant tubers, follow the species-specific instructions supplied with the plant.

Planting depth and tuber orientation can vary between species.

Step 4: Position the Plant

Place the cyclamen into the prepared planting hole.

Avoid damaging the tuber or roots.

Step 5: Backfill Carefully

Return the soil around the roots and firm gently.

Avoid burying the plant too deeply.

Step 6: Water After Planting

Water to settle the soil around the roots.

Continue monitoring moisture while the plant establishes.

Avoid keeping the soil constantly saturated.

How Deep Should Cyclamen Tubers Be Planted?

Planting depth is particularly important with cyclamen.

However, there isn’t one universal rule for every species.

For Cyclamen hederifolium, the tuber is commonly planted with its upper surface covered by a shallow layer of soil.

Cyclamen coum is also generally planted shallowly.

Follow reputable species-specific instructions rather than assuming all cyclamen should be planted with their tubers exposed.

Florist’s cyclamen grown in pots are different: the upper portion of the tuber is often kept above the compost surface.

Incorrect planting depth can contribute to poor growth or rot.

Growing Cyclamen in Pots and Containers

Cyclamen can be excellent container plants.

They’re useful for brightening patios, doorways, sheltered courtyards and greenhouse displays.

Choosing a Pot

Use a container with adequate drainage holes.

Avoid pots that are excessively large for the plant.

Choosing Compost

A suitable free-draining potting mix is important.

For hardy cyclamen, a quality peat-free compost amended with an appropriate drainage material may work well.

Positioning Outdoor Pots

Place hardy cyclamen in a sheltered position with suitable light.

Protect containers from prolonged waterlogging.

Protecting Pots from Severe Frost

Although hardy cyclamen tolerate cold conditions, plants in containers can be more vulnerable because their roots and tubers are exposed to freezing temperatures from all sides.

Move pots into a sheltered position during prolonged severe weather if necessary.

Avoid Standing Water

Never leave cyclamen containers standing in water-filled saucers for extended periods.

Good drainage is essential.

How to Look After Indoor Cyclamen

Florist’s cyclamen are popular indoor plants during autumn and winter.

Their colourful flowers can brighten windowsills and tables when outdoor gardens have fewer blooms.

However, they often struggle in overheated rooms.

Keep Indoor Cyclamen Cool

Florist’s cyclamen generally prefer cool indoor conditions.

A bright, cool room is often better than a warm living room beside a radiator.

Excessive heat can shorten flowering and cause leaves to yellow.

Provide Bright Light

Choose a bright position away from intense, scorching sunlight.

A cool windowsill can be suitable, provided the plant isn’t exposed to damaging cold or draughts.

Water Carefully

Check the compost regularly.

Water when necessary, avoiding prolonged saturation.

Try not to leave water sitting around the crown of the plant.

Bottom watering can be useful, but always allow excess water to drain away afterwards.

Remove Finished Flowers

Spent flower stems can often be removed by gently twisting and pulling them from the base.

Avoid leaving decaying stems around the crown.

How Often Should You Water Cyclamen?

Watering requirements depend on whether the plant is actively growing or dormant.

Hardy Cyclamen in the Ground

Established hardy cyclamen often need relatively little additional watering.

Rainfall may provide sufficient moisture during autumn and winter.

However, newly planted cyclamen may need occasional watering during dry spells.

Cyclamen in Containers

Check the compost regularly.

Water when the upper compost begins drying, while avoiding complete desiccation during active growth.

Indoor Florist’s Cyclamen

Keep the compost moderately moist while the plant is actively growing and flowering.

Avoid waterlogging.

During Dormancy

Reduce watering as growth naturally slows and foliage dies back.

Dormant tubers generally need much less moisture.

However, don’t assume every cyclamen species follows exactly the same seasonal pattern.

Should You Feed Cyclamen?

Hardy cyclamen growing in reasonably fertile garden soil often need little additional feeding.

Excessive fertiliser isn’t necessary and may encourage weak growth.

Container-grown cyclamen can benefit from modest feeding during active growth, depending on the compost and plant condition.

For florist’s cyclamen, use a suitable houseplant fertiliser at the recommended dilution when appropriate.

Avoid feeding heavily during dormancy.

Always follow the product instructions.

Why Are My Cyclamen Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellowing leaves are one of the most common cyclamen problems.

However, yellow leaves don’t always mean the plant is dying.

Natural Dormancy

Many cyclamen naturally lose their leaves at certain times of year.

For hardy autumn- and winter-growing species, foliage often dies back as temperatures rise towards summer.

This is normal.

Overwatering

Excess moisture can damage roots and tubers.

Check whether the compost is waterlogged.

Excessive Heat

Florist’s cyclamen may develop yellow leaves when kept in rooms that are too warm.

Poor Light

Insufficient light can weaken indoor plants.

Pest or Disease Problems

Inspect leaves and the crown for signs of pests, mould or decay.

The correct treatment depends on the underlying cause.

What Happens When Cyclamen Go Dormant?

Dormancy is a natural part of the cyclamen growing cycle.

Many hardy species grow actively during cooler months before resting during warmer weather.

As dormancy begins, leaves turn yellow and gradually disappear.

The underground tuber remains alive.

Should You Dig Up Dormant Cyclamen?

Usually not.

Established hardy cyclamen can remain undisturbed in suitable garden soil.

Should You Cut Off the Leaves?

Allow foliage to die back naturally.

Remove dead leaves when they detach easily.

Avoid removing healthy green leaves unnecessarily.

Should You Water Dormant Cyclamen?

Reduce watering considerably.

Outdoor hardy cyclamen usually manage with natural rainfall in suitable soil.

Container plants may need occasional attention, depending on their species and growing conditions.

How to Encourage Cyclamen to Flower Again

If your cyclamen has stopped flowering, don’t immediately throw it away.

First, identify which type you’re growing.

Hardy Garden Cyclamen

Hardy species naturally flower during particular seasons.

You cannot expect Cyclamen hederifolium to flower throughout winter or Cyclamen coum to bloom continuously all year.

Provide suitable growing conditions and allow the plant to follow its natural cycle.

Indoor Florist’s Cyclamen

After flowering, florist’s cyclamen may gradually enter dormancy.

Reduce watering as the foliage naturally dies back.

Keep the tuber in appropriate conditions during its resting period.

When new growth appears, resume careful watering and provide bright, cool conditions.

Reflowering is possible, although many gardeners find it challenging to maintain florist’s cyclamen successfully from one year to the next.

How to Propagate Cyclamen

Cyclamen can be propagated from seed.

This is a rewarding way to produce additional plants, although it requires patience.

Collecting Cyclamen Seeds

After pollination, cyclamen may develop seed capsules.

In some species, the flower stalk curls as the seeds mature.

Collect ripe seeds before they’re dispersed.

Sowing Cyclamen Seeds

Use suitable seed compost and follow the germination requirements for the species.

Cyclamen seeds often benefit from soaking before sowing, and many germinate best under relatively cool, dark conditions.

Germination can take several weeks or longer.

Growing On Seedlings

Once seedlings emerge, provide suitable light and moisture.

Avoid waterlogging.

Young cyclamen can take several years to reach flowering size.

Will Cyclamen Spread Naturally?

Yes, some hardy cyclamen can gradually establish colonies through self-seeding.

Ants may help disperse their seeds.

Given suitable conditions and minimal disturbance, a few plants can eventually become a larger display.

Can You Divide Cyclamen Tubers?

Cyclamen are generally not propagated by routine division in the same way as many herbaceous perennials.

Cutting tubers can introduce rot and damage the growing points.

For most gardeners, seed propagation is a safer and more practical method of increasing hardy cyclamen.

If you want more plants quickly, purchasing additional healthy tubers or container-grown plants may be preferable.

The Best Companion Plants for Cyclamen

Cyclamen work beautifully alongside other plants that enjoy similar conditions.

Snowdrops

Snowdrops provide early-season flowers and can complement winter-flowering Cyclamen coum.

Hellebores

Hellebores offer winter and early-spring colour.

Their larger flowers contrast nicely with delicate cyclamen.

Ferns

Suitable shade-tolerant ferns provide contrasting foliage.

Choose species appropriate for the soil moisture and light levels.

Hostas

Hostas can provide summer foliage when some hardy cyclamen are dormant.

Be mindful of root competition and planting space.

Crocuses

Early-flowering crocuses can create attractive seasonal combinations in suitable positions.

Deciduous Shrubs

Cyclamen often grow particularly well beneath shrubs that allow winter light to reach the ground.

Gardening with Ben tip: Combining hardy cyclamen with snowdrops and hellebores is a lovely way to bring colour into the garden when many other plants are still dormant.

Can Cyclamen Grow in a Greenhouse or Polytunnel?

Yes, cyclamen can be grown under protection, but their requirements vary.

Hardy Cyclamen

Hardy species generally don’t need a greenhouse once established outdoors.

However, pots of young plants can benefit from protection against prolonged wet weather.

Florist’s Cyclamen

A cool, frost-free greenhouse can provide suitable conditions for florist’s cyclamen.

Avoid exposing them to freezing temperatures.

Watch for Overheating

Greenhouses and polytunnels can become surprisingly warm on sunny days, even during autumn and winter.

Ventilate when necessary.

Avoid Excessive Humidity

Poor airflow and wet compost can encourage fungal diseases.

Provide ventilation and avoid overcrowding.

How to Protect Cyclamen from Frost

The correct frost protection depends on the species.

Hardy Garden Cyclamen

Established Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum usually tolerate typical UK winter conditions when planted in suitable soil.

However, prolonged waterlogging and extreme exposure can cause problems.

Cyclamen in Pots

Move containers into shelter during prolonged severe frost.

Avoid leaving pots where drainage holes become blocked.

Florist’s Cyclamen

Protect these plants from frost.

Bring outdoor displays into a cool, frost-free environment before freezing temperatures arrive.

Don’t assume a plant is hardy simply because it was sold outdoors at a garden centre.

Common Cyclamen Pests and Diseases

Vine Weevil

Vine weevil larvae can damage roots and tubers, particularly in container-grown plants.

Adults may leave distinctive notches along leaf edges.

Inspect suspicious plants and use appropriate control measures where necessary.

Grey Mould

Grey mould, caused by Botrytis fungi, can develop in cool, humid conditions.

Remove decaying flowers and leaves promptly.

Improve ventilation and avoid excessive moisture.

Tuber Rot

Poor drainage and prolonged waterlogging can lead to tuber decay.

Prevention is easier than treatment.

Slugs and Snails

Young cyclamen leaves may occasionally suffer damage from slugs and snails.

Inspect plants and use wildlife-conscious control methods where appropriate.

Common Mistakes When Growing Cyclamen

1. Planting Florist’s Cyclamen Outdoors Permanently

Many colourful florist’s cyclamen are not hardy enough for typical UK winters.

2. Overwatering

Cyclamen tubers can rot when compost remains saturated.

3. Planting Tubers Incorrectly

Planting depth varies by species and growing method.

4. Keeping Indoor Cyclamen Too Warm

Hot rooms can shorten flowering and encourage yellow leaves.

5. Throwing Away Dormant Plants

Natural dormancy is often mistaken for plant death.

6. Growing Cyclamen in Waterlogged Soil

Good drainage is essential for long-term success.

7. Expecting Flowers All Year

Different species have distinct flowering seasons.

8. Removing Healthy Leaves Too Early

Foliage helps plants store energy for future growth.

9. Ignoring Species Names

Correct identification makes winter care much easier.

10. Disturbing Established Tubers

Hardy cyclamen often perform best when left undisturbed.

UK Cyclamen Care Calendar

Month	Gardening jobs
January	Enjoy Cyclamen coum flowers and monitor drainage.
February	Continue winter flowering care and remove decaying leaves.
March	Allow hardy plants to finish their seasonal growth naturally.
April	Monitor foliage as some species approach dormancy.
May	Reduce unnecessary watering as summer dormancy begins.
June	Avoid disturbing dormant hardy tubers.
July	Plan new planting areas and check drainage.
August	Look for emerging Cyclamen hederifolium flowers.
September	Enjoy autumn flowers and plant suitable hardy cyclamen.
October	Monitor new foliage and protect florist’s cyclamen from frost.
November	Keep containers well drained and sheltered.
December	Watch for early Cyclamen coum flowers and winter weather.

Exact timing depends on local climate and the species you’re growing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Cyclamen

Do cyclamen come back every year?

Hardy cyclamen can return year after year when grown in suitable conditions. Florist’s cyclamen may also survive for multiple years if cared for correctly, but they need different conditions.

Can cyclamen survive frost?

Hardy species such as Cyclamen coum and Cyclamen hederifolium can tolerate frost. Florist’s cyclamen generally require frost-free protection.

Do cyclamen prefer sun or shade?

Many hardy cyclamen grow well in partial shade, particularly beneath deciduous trees and shrubs.

Why are my cyclamen leaves turning yellow?

Yellow leaves may indicate natural dormancy, excessive heat, overwatering or other growing problems.

Can cyclamen grow in pots?

Yes. Cyclamen are excellent container plants when grown in suitable free-draining compost with adequate drainage.

Should I deadhead cyclamen?

Removing spent flowers from florist’s cyclamen can help keep plants tidy and reduce decaying material around the crown.

When should I plant cyclamen tubers?

Planting times vary by species and whether the plants are dormant tubers or container-grown specimens. Late summer and autumn are common planting periods for hardy cyclamen.

How long do cyclamen flowers last?

Individual flowers and the overall flowering season vary by species, temperature and growing conditions. Cool conditions often help florist’s cyclamen remain attractive for longer.

Do cyclamen spread naturally?

Some hardy cyclamen gradually spread through self-seeding when growing conditions are suitable.

Are cyclamen poisonous to pets?

Yes. Cyclamen contain compounds that can be toxic to cats, dogs and other animals, particularly if the tubers are eaten. Keep plants away from pets that may chew them.

Final Thoughts: Enjoying Beautiful Cyclamen Year After Year

Cyclamen are wonderful plants for bringing colour into the garden during autumn, winter and early spring.

Their delicate flowers and beautifully patterned leaves make them particularly attractive in shaded borders, beneath trees and in containers.

The most important thing is choosing the right variety.

For reliable outdoor displays in UK gardens, Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum are excellent choices.

If you prefer the colourful florist’s cyclamen commonly sold during autumn and winter, remember that these need cool, bright conditions and protection from frost.

Provide suitable drainage, avoid overwatering and allow the plants to follow their natural growing and resting cycles.

With a little patience, hardy cyclamen can establish into beautiful colonies that return year after year.

And remember, even when much of the garden is sleeping, there’s always something beautiful you can grow.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!