The Cyclamen genus contains about 20 species of flowering perennial plants native to parts of Europe and Western Asia. These alluring plants have been cultivated for both ornamental and medicinal purposes. The name Cyclamen is derived from the Greek "kyklos," meaning "circle."
Cyclamen Description
Cyclamen plants are known for their flowers, which range in color from white and pale pink to crimson and violet. The petals of these flowers appear to stretch upwards from the flower's center, as if blown by an invisible wind from below. The flowers are supported by thin, supple stems three to six inches in height. The low-growing leaves of the cyclamen are heart-shaped and ruffled. They are mainly dark green in color, with greenish-white embellishments.
Cyclamen Growing Conditions
Although they appear to be delicate, most species of cyclamen are in fact quite hardy and can survive cold and even freezing temperatures. They are generally hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 5 to 9. Most cyclamens go dormant during part of the year. These plants grow from tubers that can last up to 60 years. Different species produce flowers during different seasons. Cyclamen plants prefer partial shade to full sun and grow abundantly under tree cover. They also enjoy fertile, well-drained soil that is either pH neutral or slightly acidic.
Cyclamen Lore and Uses
The ancient Greek physician Dioscorides asserted that cyclamen could be used to speed up a pregnant woman's delivery, cure snakebites, counteract poison, cure cataracts and eye weaknesses and heal wounds. The 16th-century English herbalist John Gerard believed cyclamen to be a powerful male aphrodisiac. In England, cyclamen was known as "sowbread," due to to fact that its tuberous roots were used to feed pigs.
Source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_7599786_cyclamen-plant-information.html
