1 / 5Key characteristics
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 inches
- Width
- 6 to 12 inches
- Flower color
- Shades of white to pink, often with darker markings
- Foliage color
- Heart-shaped, dark green leaves with silver marbling
- Bloom time
- Late summer to early fall
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- Average
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees
Groundcovers
Cyclamen hederifolium
Ivy-leaved Cyclamen
Cyclamen hederifolium is a charming perennial native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean, where it grows in woodlands and rocky slopes. It is known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves that are often marbled with silver, providing ornamental appeal throughout the year. From late summer to autumn, the plant produces delicate, upward-facing flowers in shades of white to pink, adding a burst of color to shaded garden areas.
Works well in
- Mediterranean Gardens
- Pathways & Walkways
- Borders
- Under Trees
Companion plants
Ferns · Primroses · Hostas · Epimediums · Hellebores · Japanese anemones
Design tip
Tuck this cyclamen among shade perennials that fade by late summer so fresh flowers emerge as earlier displays decline. The changing sequence extends seasonal interest, keeping woodland plantings colorful and engaging without adding visual clutter or overcrowding.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
More groundcovers
Euphorbia myrsinites
Myrtle Spurge
Blooms small, yellow-green flowers
Full sun to partial shade
Sanguinaria canadensis 'Multiplex'
Double Bloodroot
Blooms pure white, fully double blossoms composed of many narrow, layered petals
Partial shade to full shade
Origanum ‘Bristol Cross’
Bristol Cross Oregano
Blooms pinkish-purple bracts with small, purple tubular flowers
Full sun
Cyclamen coum
Persian Violet
Blooms shades of pink, magenta, or white
Partial to full shade