Cyclamen balearicum (Balearic Cyclamen) Tubers
Establish a beautiful and delicate woodland floor in your garden. Cyclamen balearicum is a tuberous perennial prized for its elegant, fragrant spring display.
- Height: 5cm
- Spread: 10-15cm
Key Features
- Distinctive heart-shaped leaves with scalloped edges.
- Foliage is mid-green or grey-green with heavy silver marbling on top.
- Leaf undersides are a striking dark red.
- Produces delicate, nodding flowers with swept-back petals.
- Flowers are white or pale pink and strongly fragrant.
- Flowers and leaves appear together in spring.
Benefits for UK Wildlife
This plant provides a vital early source of nectar for pollinators. Its spring flowers are a magnet for emerging bees and other beneficial insects when few other food sources are available.
Other Names
You may also know this plant as the Balearic Cyclamen.
Planting Tips
- Plant the flattened tubers in partial to full shade.
- They thrive in well-drained soil, ideally with added leaf mould or grit.
- Plant the tubers about 2-3cm deep.
- Space them 10-15cm apart to allow for natural colonisation.
- A north-facing rockery or a spot under deciduous trees is perfect.
Create a natural-looking carpet of scent and colour that supports local wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for autumn planting of spring bulbs?
The ideal time to plant spring flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, crocus, and snowdrops is from September to November. Planting during this period allows bulbs to establish roots before winter and ensures a healthy, vibrant bloom in early spring, with stunning green foliage and flower colours ranging from purple and blue to bright yellows and whites.
How long do spring bulbs take to flower?
Most spring bulbs planted in autumn start to flower between February and May, depending on the type. Early bloomers like snowdrops and crocus appear first, while tulips and daffodils follow later in spring, creating a sequential display of colour.
Can I plant different types of spring bulbs together?
Yes! Mixing different bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and muscari adds something extra in terms of colour and texture to your garden. Planting in clusters or drifts creates a natural, layered effect, letting you get a longer flowering season and a richer display for both you and pollinators.
Do I need to remove foliage after flowering?
Yes, but allow leaves to die back naturally rather than cutting them too early. Leaving the foliage lets the plant save energy, which the bulbs use to produce strong, vibrant flowers come next spring.