Cyclamen coum, also known as the Balkan cyclamen, is a species of flowering plant that is native to the Balkans and parts of the Caucasus. It is a popular ornamental plant, prized for its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. The flowers come in shades of pink, white, and purple, and the foliage is usually dark green with silver markings.
Cyclamen coum is a low-growing perennial that is easy to care for and can provide a stunning display in any garden. It thrives in cool, shady conditions and blooms in late winter or early spring, making it the perfect choice for brightening up a winter garden.
Benefits of growing cyclamen coum
Cyclamen coum is a flowering member of the Primulaceae (primrose) family, making it a popular choice for gardeners around Britain. This perennial species is usually found growing as a ground cover in woodland, often near rocks and logs. The small, nodding flowers of the cyclamen comes in an array of colors, including various shades of pink, white, and purple and is commonly seen in UK gardens during the winter and early spring.
This low growing plant offers so many benefits to the British gardener that it is well worth the effort to ensure these beautiful blooms thrive. Firstly, cyclamen coum is known for being hardy, meaning it can survive in British climates as well as being frost resistant.
It also grows relatively quickly, spread over the ground, with vigorous, underground runners, forming and attractive carpet of foliage. The delicate flowers of cyclamen coum have a subtle fragrance and its natural ability to attract pollinators – bees, hoverflies and butterflies – makes it useful for both the garden eco-system and for the adjoining flower beds that will benefit from the increased pollination.
This means other nearby flowering plants will remain healthier, continue to bloom and be more vibrant as a result. Given the right soils and planting conditions, cyclamen coum can happily remain in situ for years. Although fragrant and delicate, the roots are tough, being able to grow in less than ideal soils and relatively little maintenance.
Growth of the cyclamen continues between late winter and early spring, with a carpet of delicate blooms sure to lighten up any dull and damp winter days.
Tips for planting and caring for cyclamen coum
. Taking on the challenge of growing Cyclamen coum, commonly referred to as the winter floret, can indeed be a rewarding gardening experience.
Humans have been cultivating this species of hardy perennials since the 1700s, and their delicate, bell-shaped blooms have become a favorite of gardeners of all levels. Whether looking to add a touch of winter color to your garden or as a statement shrub, Cyclamen coum can make a great addition to your garden. Growing Cyclamen coum is relatively easy and can be done in a variety of ways, but careful maintenance is necessary for them to thrive.
If you are planting cyclamen coum, firstly it is important to choose a well-drained, sheltered spot to cultivate as Cyclamen coum does not enjoy wet soil. It cannot tolerate frost, therefore providing a layer of mulch will help prevent the plant from freezing. Furthermore, it is important to maintain soil pH levels between 6 and 8, as Cyclamen coum can become stressed if the soil pH is too high.
Regular watering during the summer season is essential to keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. It is important to know that Cyclamen coum rarely needs to be fertilized as they are a low-maintenance flower, however adding a balanced organic fertilizer during the spring can help improve their performance.
When exposed to too much sun, the flowers will wither quickly as this species of flowering plants are shade-loving perennials. Therefore, during the mid-season, maintain a bit of shade over the plant to ensure it will not be over exposed to direct sunlight.
Finally, it is important to keep the foliage healthy by cutting off any dead or diseased foliage during the mid-season and to remove any fading flowers before they can turn into seedpods. Once mature, the Cyclamen coum can become quite invasive, so if you don’t want them becoming too large in your garden, it is important to work with a pot that you can move regularly to help contain their growth. With the right environment and maintenance, these easy-to-manage flowers will add a touch of brilliance to your garden and can be enjoyed for years to come.
Common problems with cyclamen coum
. Cyclamen coum, otherwise known as the sowbread, is a flowering, winter-blooming cyclamen native to the Middle East and southern Europe.
Often seen in temperate gardens, these compact herbaceous perennials provide an interesting winter display of leafy rosettes. Lovely pink or white blooms appear above small foliage and bright silver-purple markings. Unfortunately, Cyclamen coum can be notoriously tricky to cultivate.
The most common problem gardeners encounter is overwatering; given the wrong conditions, the rhizomatous tubers of the sowbread can easily rot. This can be avoided by letting the soil dry out between waterings, allowing regular precipitation to be the plant’s water source. Cyclamen coum prefers a well-draining soil, so mulching around the plant’s base is also advised.
Additionally, Cyclamen coum are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. In cooler climates, the perennial prefers a shady, sheltered spot, whereas warmer temperatures can cause the leaves to yellow prematurely.
Always make sure to protect the roots from direct sun or extreme temperatures. For best results, mulch your beds with a thick layer of organic matter to help insulate the plant. For a plant as beautiful as the Cyclamen coum, it is worth the effort of finding the perfect environment.
With a little extra care and attention, this winter-flowering perennial can grace any temperate garden with bright, unique blooms.
Bottom Line
Cyclamen coum is a hardy perennial flowering plant native to the eastern Mediterranean region. It produces bright pink, white, or purple flowers in winter and early spring and its foliage is evergreen.
The plant is easy to grow in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade. Cyclamen coum is a great choice for anyone looking for a low maintenance, colorful addition to their garden.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of Cyclamen coum?
The scientific name of Cyclamen coum is Cyclamen coum subsp. coum.
What is the natural habitat of Cyclamen coum?
The natural habitat of Cyclamen coum is in deciduous woodlands, grasslands, and rocky areas in the Caucasus Mountains and parts of Eastern Europe.
How long does Cyclamen coum take to flower?
Cyclamen coum typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks to flower after planting.
What is the ideal soil type for Cyclamen coum?
The ideal soil type for Cyclamen coum is a well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil.
How often should Cyclamen coum be watered?
Cyclamen coum should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
What is the best way to propagate Cyclamen coum?
The best way to propagate Cyclamen coum is by division of the rhizomes.
