Cyclamen persicum Bisou Violet

Cyclamen Bisou Violet is part of a new line of Persian cyclamen hybrids that combine flame-patterned flowers with heavily silver-marbled foliage. Compact and well-groomed, they form neat cushions that begin flowering in mid-October. This one bears magenta-tinged violet flowers. It is a frost-sensitive plant, but its long flowering period, lasting until the heart of winter, is an undeniable asset for decorating interiors during a time generally unfavourable to blooming. Mini cyclamen is often grown as an annual, in semi-shade or full shade under trees, along pathways, or in shady rockeries where it creates a sensation.

Cyclamen Bisou Violet belongs to the Primulaceae family. It originates from the Persian cyclamen, renowned for its beautiful winter flowering. It is a small perennial plant with tuberous roots, but not very hardy. It is unable to withstand frost. The tubers are rounded and compressed, covered with a smooth and velvety 'skin' as well as roots originating from their centre and base. The vegetative cycle of the cyclamen depends on genetics and growing conditions. In this variety, the dormant period occurs in summer, and the plant begins to grow at the end of summer, flowering from October to January. In frost-free regions, it is possible to leave the tubers in the ground. The leaves are cordate and rounded, measuring about 4cm (2in) in diameter. The colour of the leaves is a dark green in the centre, heavily marbled with silver-grey at the margin. They form a small cushion with a diameter of 25cm (10in). The flowering emerges from the centre of the cushion, at a height of 25cm (10in). The pointed flower buds, initially lying on the ground, stand upright on brown peduncles. Each flower consists of 5 large petals, which are slightly twisted and curved backward. Here, they are violet in colour, finely edged with white. Once the flowering is over, in January, the foliage turns yellow, disappears, and the plant goes dormant. During this resting period, watering should be reduced, and the plant should be stored in a cool place.

Plant in a pot or planter, with a variegated miniature ivy Kolibri, some heucheras, some euphorbias that tolerate semi-shade, or some dwarf euonymus, for example. Planted en masse, with a mix of colours, mini cyclamens form ephemeral but unforgettable carpets in shaded areas of the garden, along with begonias and impatiens, for example. They will also find their place in a semi-shady rockery that is not too dry, along with snowdrops and hellebores, for example. Take a look at our selection of hardy cyclamens, which tolerate cold weather and naturalise in the garden.