Cyclamen neapolitanum - Ivy-leaved cyclamen

Cyclamen neapolitanum, also known as Cyclamen hederifolium, is native to a region ranging from the South of France to the west of Turkey, passing through Italy, from which it gets its name. It is sometimes called Sowbread (because its tuber is appreciated by pigs) or ivy-leaved cyclamen due to the resemblance of its leaves to those of ivy (which is called hedera in Latin).

This garden cyclamen is perfectly perennial and adapts to all climates, easily naturalising in gardens to form beautiful flowering carpets within a few years. The flowers appear from September to November, often before the first leaves. These leaves will persist until spring, forming a vegetal carpet.

Preferring semi-shade, cyclamens thrive at the base of bushes, in rockeries, and in less sunny corners of the garden. Their small size is perfect for pot or container cultivation. They are the perfect choice for adorning window boxes and patios in winter.

The dark green leaves marbled with silver-grey are heart-shaped, measuring from 3 to 14cm (1 to 6in). They are carried by long petioles emerging directly from the tuber. The plant has a spreading habit, reaching about 12cm (5in) in height and 15cm (6in) in width.

The pink flowers are solitary and drooping. The reflexed petals along their stem emerge from the foliage from September to November. The flowers are sometimes slightly scented.