Cyclamen purpurascens

Alpine Violet, Sowbread, European Cyclamen, Alpine Cyclamen

Message of the Flower

Scented Marvel

The Mother’s Comment

One of the innumerable gifts of Nature.

Colour

Rose pink to magenta, crimson

Family

Primulaceae

Person who named the flower

Asa Gray

Flower Size

1-2 inches across

Flower Texture

Smooth and waxy

Number of Petals

Five

Floral Symmetry

Radial

Fragrance of Flower

Lightly fragrant, noticeable in the evening

Leaf Texture

Smooth with waxy coating, often marbled

Leaf Arrangement

Basal rosette

Leaf Color

Green with silver or pale green marbling

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Herbaceous perennial

Life Cycle

Perennial

Blooming Period

Summer to early autumn

Climate

Cooler temperate climates

Water Requirements

Moderate, well-drained soil, even moisture

Soil Type

Rich, well-drained, high organic content

Temperature Ranges

Hardy in cooler climates, does not tolerate extreme heat

Sun or Shade

Partial shade, tolerates full shade

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Vine weevils, grey mould in damp conditions

Pollinators

Bees, butterflies

Habitat

European woodlands, especially mountainous regions

Role in the Ecosystem

Provides nectar for pollinators

Quotations

None noted

Ornamental

Valued for ornamental foliage and flowers

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Ornamental, garden design for shade tolerance

Endangered Status

Not endangered, but habitat loss threatens wild populations

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