Flowering Houseplant is a Cyclamen

I was given this flowering plant. It is struggling to survive but I don’t know what it is or how to keep it alive. Thank you. Gail

Hi Gail,

You plant is called a Cyclamen. Cyclamen are very poisonous houseplants so please keep it away from pets and small children. Most people have problems with this plant because of watering issues and room temperature. The cooler the room the longer the flowers last.

Water: Always water from the bottom by sitting the plant in a deep saucer of water when the leaves start to droop. Also, never water the very center of the plant. Allow any excess water in the soil to drain before returning the plant to its decorative container. Keep cyclamen leaves dry.

Light: During the fall and winter, provide bright, indirect light. In the spring, when your cyclamen become dormant, put it in a dark, cool area for a few months and do not water until it starts to produce new leaves in the fall.

Ferilizer: Unlike most house plants, a cyclamen likes to be fed in the fall and winter. Feed monthly during these seasons when the plant is actively growing with a water-soluble plant food diluted to 1/2 the recommended strength.

You can read all my care tips for a cyclamen in the Popular Houseplant section of the website.

https://www.houseplant411.com/houseplant/cyclamen-how-to-grow-care-guide