Cyclamen: an underrated winter flower with striking character

General guidance only: confirm the needs of the particular plant and its setting. Familiar December choices include poinsettia and amaryllis.

Another elegant option, sometimes overlooked in winter displays, is:
cyclamen.

What makes cyclamen distinctive?

Cyclamen is a genus of perennial plants with varied leaf shapes, often heart-shaped or rounded, and frequently marked with silver marbling or decorative patterns. The foliage can remain attractive even when the plant is not in flower.

But her real charm lies in flowers:
petals facing upwards and curved towards the rear
delicate colours – white, pink, red, purple
and, most fascinating, blooms in winterJust when other plants come to rest.

For florists or plant lovers, there is a superb contrast near the Christmas tree, candles or festive arrangements.

How to care for cyclamen

Cyclamen generally prefers cool conditions, gentle light and carefully managed moisture. Requirements vary by species and cultivar, so treat the following points as general guidance.

Light

• Choose an area with light indirect, diffuse
• Ideal: ledge east or north
• Avoid strong sun and excessive heat

Temperature

• A cool room, at roughly 15–16°C (about 60°F), is often suitable
• Avoid overheated rooms
• Winter feels best in a hallway, near cold windows or even in a protected porch

Moisture

• Many cyclamen prefer moderate humidity
• May be placed in the bathroom (natural light required)
• Or pebble and water trayavoiding direct contact of the pot with water

How to water correctly

Avoid repeatedly wetting the crown. Poorly managed watering can contribute to decline or rot.

One possible method:
stand the pot in a shallow bowl of water for a short period, then allow it to drain thoroughly.

Avoid saturating the plant’s crown (where the stems meet the root area), because persistent moisture there can encourage rot.

Fertilisation

• 1 per month with indoor plant fertiliser
• Dose reduced to half of normal concentration

What do we do when the leaves turn yellow?

Yellowing can indicate the start of dormancy, but it may also reflect watering, temperature or plant-health problems.
If dormancy is confirmed:

Stop watering and fertilization
We’re moving the plant to a cool, dark place.
We cut the leaves as they dry

In a few months, the cyclamen can wake up again, ready for a new season of flowers.

Cyclamen is a superb option for the cold-elegant, delicate, colourful and spectacular season. Perfect for houses, showrooms, windows and arrangements for florists.

If you want a flower that comes out of the classic Christmas patterns, give it the chance of this little winter diamond. I might become your favourite.

Sales recommendations for florists

How to present cyclamen effectively

• Present it as a winter-flowering option
  – In December – January, promote the cyclamen as an elegant alternative to the classic Poinsettia, offering customers an option with delicate flowers, various colours and refined air.
• Show plants in decorative, theme-inspired pots
  – Use festive pots – red, white, silver, decorations or bunches – to highlight flowers and convey the idea of a perfect gift for Christmas / New Year / Winter.
• Include a short care guide with each purchase
  – A simple label or a bag card with tips: where to be placed, how to wet, at which temperature is kept – customers appreciate plants “easy to maintain.”
• Combine it with suitable winter accessories
  – Provides packages: Cyclamen + arrangement with cones / candles / season greenery, or Cyclamen + gift box + ribbon. Increase basket value and attractiveness.
• Explain its seasonal character
  – Communication “blooms winter” and “rarely used perennial plant” creates a feeling of exclusivity. Recommended for customers looking for special decorative objects, not just “ordinary flowers.”
• Explain the lifecycle and summer rest
  – Inform them that after flowering the plant enters a resting phase – for many it is surprising but natural. This avoids returns or discontent.
• Promote on social media / window
  – Post images of cyclamens in winter decorations, along with festive messages (“A living gift for winter,” “Colours and elegance on cold days”).

Cyclamen is not only an attractive winter plant; it can also be a seasonal merchandising option for florists as a potted plant or winter gift. Commercial results depend on local demand, stock quality, pricing and presentation.

When choosing a supplier, verify plant quality, delivery conditions and any guidance offered rather than assuming these services are included. For current learning opportunities, confirm the date, organiser and availability before registering for this florist event.