Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Cyclamen hederifolium Ait.

Fully hardy tuberous perennial with heart-shaped leaves, very variably patterned, usually paler beneath, to 15cm long, and pink flowers with deep maroon markings, to 2.5cm long.  To 15cm.  Many garden forms and hybrids exist.  [RHSE, Hortus]. 

Horticultural & Botanical History

Probably an ancient garden plant.  Keble Martin describes it as naturalised in woods in southern England.  Both Paxton’s and Johnson’s Dictionary describe it as native to Britain, suggesting a long-time residence.  Saint-Hilaire pl.161/1829. 

History at Camden Park

Cyclamen hederifolium is hand written in a copy of the 1850 catalogue held at the Mitchell library, inscribed on the front Wm. Macarthur, 23rd. Dec 1854 [ML635.9m].  It had previously been included among desiderata to Loddiges’ nursery, 6th January 1845 [MP A2933-2, p.28].  This is the likely source. 

Notes

Published Jan 18, 2009 - 04:23 PM | Last updated Jul 29, 2010 - 05:36 PM

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The image shows part of a corm, leaves and the red-pink flowers. Saint-Hilaire pl.161, 1829.

Cyclamen hederifolium Ait. | Saint-Hilaire pl.161/1829 | BHL

Family Primulaceae
Category
Region of origin

Mediterranean
Synonyms
  • Cyclamen neapolitanum Ten. 
Common Name

Sour bread
Name in the Camden Park Record

Cyclamen hederifolium 
Confidence level high