Cyclamen purpurascens
Cyclamen purpurascens
Alpine Cyclamen
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Taxonomy
Family Primulaceae · Genus Cyclamen
Description
Cyclamen purpurascens is a charming, evergreen woodland cyclamen with marbled heart-shaped leaves and wonderfully fragrant pink to magenta blooms in summer and early autumn. Tougher than it looks, it thrives in cool, humus-rich shade and slowly forms graceful clumps over time.
Common Names
Alpine CyclamenEuropean CyclamenPurple CyclamenFragrant Cyclamen
Context
nativeRegion
Central Europe—Alps, Carpathians, and northern Balkans in cool, deciduous forests on calcareous soils.
usdaZones
4-7
companionPlants
Hosta, Helleborus, Epimedium, Ferns, Pulmonaria, Heuchera, Galanthus, Primula
culturalUses
Grown for its strong fragrance and evergreen marbled foliage in woodland gardens; historically noted in European folk traditions (tuber is toxic).
Care
Care Requirements
LightPartial to full shade; dappled woodland light is ideal. Avoid hot, direct afternoon sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist during growth; never waterlog. Slightly drier in winter but do not let the tuber fully dry out.
SoilWell-drained, humus-rich, gritty loam with leaf mold; neutral to alkaline (tolerates calcareous soils).
FertilizerLight feeder. Top-dress with leaf mold/compost in spring or use a balanced, dilute liquid feed monthly spring–early summer.
HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is fine; ensure good air circulation to prevent botrytis.
TemperaturePrefers cool conditions (50–70°F / 10–21°C). Hardy outdoors in USDA 4–7 with mulch; dislikes hot summers.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, tuberous perennial forming low clumps/groundcover.
Mature Size3–6 in tall (8–15 cm); 6–12+ in (15–30+ cm) spread over time.
Growth RateSlow to moderate; establishes gradually from tubers or seed.
BloomingHighly fragrant pink to magenta flowers in mid-summer to early autumn (often July–September).
DormancyMinimal; evergreen in cool climates. May slow in summer heat; foliage persists year-round where conditions suit.
Propagation
MethodsSeed (sow fresh; darkness and cool temps improve germination), Division of large tubers/offsets (advanced and risky), Self-sowing in suitable woodland beds
DifficultyModerate—seed requires patience (2–3 years to flowering) and cool conditions.
Best SeasonSow fresh seed late summer to autumn; divide or move tubers in early spring or just after flowering.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTwist off spent flowers and yellowing leaves at the base; remove debris to improve airflow.
RepottingIf container-grown, repot every 2–3 years after flowering or late winter. Plant tuber just below the surface in a gritty, humus-rich mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for vine weevil (larvae damage tubers), cyclamen mite, aphids, slugs; botrytis and root rot in stagnant, wet soils.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (especially tubers) to humans and pets; can cause severe GI distress. Handle sap with care if sensitive.
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