Tuberous perennial bearing heart-shaped to triangular leaves, to 13cm (5in) long, dark green with grey-green (patterned or speckled). Slender, fragrant, rich carmine-red flowers, to 2cm long, are borne with the leaves in mid- and late spring. It grows to 10-15cm (4-6in) high by 10-13cm (4-5in) wide.

Plant 3-5cm deep. Grow in moderately, fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial shade, under shrubs or trees. In growth, water moderately. Mulch annually with leaf mould as leaves wither; in areas with prolonged frost, provide a deep, loose mulch.

To propagate, sow seed as soon as ripe, in darkness, at 6-12°C (43-54°F). Before sowing, soak all seed in water for at least 10 hours and rinse thoroughly. In terms of pests: mice or squirrels may be a problem.

The Cyclamen genus contains 23 species. In the wild, their distribution is centred on the Mediterranean, being natives of parts of Europe, western Asia and parts of North Africa. Cyclamen are tuberous plants that have no obvious affinity with primroses (despite being in the same family). They do resemble the North American Dodecatheon in having reflexed petals. Their habitats range from beech woodland, through scrub and rocky areas, to alpine meadows where they flower in snow meltwater. The genus is notable for the fact that although it is small, there are species which flower in every month of the year.

Described by Dioscorides as a purgative and abortifacient

repandum- with slightly wavering margins.

Name a contraction of Greek, kyklaminos, from kyklos, a circle, alluding to the coiled stem of the seed vessel.

Poisonous glycosides are produced in Cyclamen.

Toxic due to saponins in leaves, stems and roots. Can irritate the intestinal tract and cause cardiac irregularities. Affects pet dogs and cats if eaten.