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Sowbread

Cyclamen hederifolium

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Plant Profile
Similar Species
Other Information
Distribution Map

Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Ericales

Family:

Primulaceae (Primrose)

Also in this family:

Bird's-eye Primrose, Bog Pimpernel, Brookweed, Chaffweed, Chickweed Wintergreen, Common Primrose, Cowslip, Creeping Jenny, Dotted Loosestrife, Eastern Sowbread, False Oxlip, Fringed Loosestrife, Japanese Cowslip, Oxlip, Scarlet Pimpernel, Scots Primrose, Sea Milkwort, Spring Sowbread, Tibetan Cowslip, Water Violet, Yellow Loosestrife, Yellow Pimpernel

Type:

Flower

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

15 centimetres tall

Habitats:

Gardens, meadows, mountains, rocky places, scrub, woodland.

Flower:

Pink, 5 petals

The flowers of Sowbread, known for their delicate petals and vibrant hues, boast a charming blend of purples, pinks, and whites. These blooms grace woodlands, forests, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows, adding a touch of natural beauty to the British countryside.

Fruit:

The fruit of Sowbread, known for its small, rounded shape and vibrant colours, adorns the woodland floors of the British countryside. With hues ranging from rich purples to deep reds, these berries are a delightful sight amidst the greenery of forests and meadows.

Leaves:

The leaves of Sowbread, characterized by their glossy, heart-shaped appearance, adorn the forest floors of the British landscape. These verdant foliage, with their vibrant green hues and delicate veins, provide a lush carpet beneath the canopy of woodland trees.

Aroma:

The aroma of Sowbread, found in woodlands across the UK, is often subtle yet enchanting. It carries delicate floral notes with hints of earthiness, evoking a sense of tranquility and natural beauty. As one wanders through the British countryside, the gentle fragrance of Sowbread adds to the overall ambiance, enhancing the sensory experience of nature's wonders.

Other Names:

Hederifolium Cyclamen, Ivy-leaved Cyclamen.

Frequency (UK):

Occasionally seen

Eastern Sowbread

Spring Sowbread

Summary

Cyclamen hederifolium, commonly known as "ivy-leaved cyclamen" or "hederifolium cyclamen," is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and can tolerate shade. It is a small plant that typically grows to around 4 inches in height, the plant has small flowers that are typically pink or white, and heart-shaped leaves. It's mostly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and also used as ground cover. It's also used as a houseplant. The plant also has some medicinal properties, it's been traditionally used to treat respiratory problems and to ease menstrual cramps. However, the plant contains cyclamen alkaloids which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so it should not be consumed as a food or used in large doses as a medicine.

Blog

Sowbread, also known as Cyclamen hederifolium, is a stunning perennial plant that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is a small plant that typically grows up to 10-15cm tall, with heart-shaped leaves and flowers that can range in color from white to pink and even dark magenta. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is often found growing in woodland areas or on rocky hillsides.

One of the most distinctive features of Sowbread is its patterned leaves. The leaves are often marbled with shades of green, silver, and grey, which gives them a striking appearance. The leaves can grow up to 15cm in diameter and are often held upright on slender stems. The flowers of Sowbread are also quite unique, with five petals that curl up at the edges to form a distinctive shape that is often compared to a butterfly.

Sowbread is a popular garden plant that is well-suited to growing in shaded areas, such as under trees or along the edges of woodland areas. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and it is important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can cause the plant to rot. Sowbread can be propagated by seed or by dividing the tubers in the autumn, and it is relatively easy to grow and care for.

One of the most interesting things about Sowbread is its relationship with ants. The seeds of the plant are coated in a sticky substance that attracts ants, who then carry the seeds back to their nests. The ants feed on the sticky coating and in doing so, they help to disperse the seeds of the plant.

In terms of medicinal uses, Sowbread has been used in traditional medicine for a range of ailments, including coughs, headaches, and even as a treatment for snake bites. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic if ingested and should not be used without professional guidance.

Sowbread is a beautiful and fascinating plant that is well worth growing in the garden. Its unique patterned leaves and delicate flowers make it a real eye-catcher, and its ability to attract ants adds an extra layer of interest to this already captivating plant. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, Sowbread is a plant that is sure to delight and inspire.

Sowbread is a plant that has been cultivated for centuries, and it has been highly valued for both its ornamental and medicinal properties. In ancient times, it was believed that the plant had magical powers, and it was often used in rituals to promote healing and fertility.

In addition to its use in traditional medicine, Sowbread has also been used in modern medicine. It contains a range of compounds, including saponins and flavonoids, that have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds are currently being studied for their potential use in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Sowbread is also a plant that has a rich cultural history. In many parts of the world, it is associated with love and romance, and it is often given as a gift to express feelings of affection. In parts of Greece, the plant is associated with the goddess Aphrodite, and it is believed to have the power to enhance fertility and promote love and happiness.

Sowbread is a plant that is rich in history, beauty, and medicinal properties. Whether you are a gardener, a herbalist, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this plant is a wonderful addition to any collection. Its unique leaves and delicate flowers make it a real standout in the garden, and its fascinating relationship with ants adds an extra layer of intrigue to this already captivating plant. So if you are looking for a plant that is both beautiful and fascinating, Sowbread is definitely one to consider.

Sowbread is a plant that is not only beautiful, but also easy to care for, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice gardeners. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, and it is relatively pest and disease-resistant.

When it comes to caring for Sowbread, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers partial to full shade and can be grown under trees or in other shaded areas of the garden. During the growing season, it is important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer to ensure that it has the nutrients it needs to thrive.

One of the great things about Sowbread is that it is a plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. As an indoor plant, it is ideal for growing in a bright, shaded area, and it can be grown in a pot or other container. It is also a great plant for growing in rock gardens or other areas of the garden where other plants may struggle to grow.

Sowbread is a plant that is as fascinating as it is beautiful. Its patterned leaves and delicate flowers make it a standout in any garden, and its medicinal and cultural history add an extra layer of interest to this already captivating plant. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, Sowbread is a plant that is sure to delight and inspire. So if you are looking for a plant that is easy to care for, yet still full of character and charm, Sowbread is definitely one to consider.

One interesting aspect of Sowbread is its propagation. The plant produces small, round, brown seeds that are coated with a sticky substance. This substance is attractive to ants, which collect the seeds and take them back to their nests. The ants feed on the sticky coating, but they do not eat the seed itself. Instead, the seeds are dispersed throughout the environment, helping to spread the plant to new areas.

In addition to its seeds, Sowbread can also be propagated by dividing the tubers. This is typically done in the fall, after the plant has finished flowering. To divide the tubers, carefully dig up the plant and separate the tubers into smaller pieces, making sure that each piece has at least one bud. Replant the tubers in a new location, and water them well.

Sowbread is also a great plant for attracting pollinators to the garden. The plant's delicate flowers are a favorite of bees and other insects, which are attracted to the plant's nectar. By planting Sowbread in your garden, you can help to support local pollinators and promote biodiversity in your area.

Sowbread is a plant that is as interesting as it is beautiful. Its unique leaves, delicate flowers, and fascinating relationship with ants make it a standout in any garden. Whether you are looking to add some color and texture to your garden, or simply want to explore the natural world around you, Sowbread is a plant that is sure to delight and inspire.

Sowbread is also a plant that has been associated with a number of myths and legends throughout history. In Greek mythology, the plant was said to have sprung from the tears of Persephone, the goddess of spring and the underworld, after she was abducted by Hades. The plant was believed to be a symbol of rebirth and renewal, and it was often used in rituals celebrating the return of spring.

In addition to its use in mythology, Sowbread has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant was believed to have a range of medicinal properties, including the ability to reduce inflammation and pain, promote healing, and relieve respiratory conditions. Today, Sowbread is still used in some traditional medicine practices, although it is important to note that its use should be supervised by a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Sowbread is also a popular plant in the world of horticulture. Its unique leaves and delicate flowers make it a favorite among gardeners, and it is often used in rock gardens, shade gardens, and other areas where other plants may struggle to grow. The plant is also a great choice for container gardening, and it can be grown indoors or outdoors depending on the growing conditions.

Overall, Sowbread is a plant that is rich in history, beauty, and cultural significance. Whether you are a gardener, a herbalist, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this plant is a wonderful addition to any collection. Its unique leaves and delicate flowers make it a real standout in the garden, and its fascinating history and cultural significance make it a plant that is sure to inspire and delight. So if you are looking for a plant that is both beautiful and fascinating, Sowbread is definitely one to consider.

30 Super Sowbread Facts

Cyclamen hederifolium, commonly known as Sowbread, is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae.
It is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Europe and North Africa.
Sowbread gets its name from its historical use as a food source for pigs in some regions.
The plant typically blooms in late summer to early autumn, producing flowers with reflexed petals in shades of pink, white, or lavender.
Sowbread flowers have a distinct appearance, with petals that curl backward, revealing their delicate stamens.
Its leaves are heart-shaped and have marbled patterns, reminiscent of ivy leaves, hence the species epithet "hederifolium."
Cyclamen hederifolium is a perennial plant, meaning it regrows year after year from its tuberous roots.
It thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas, often found growing under trees or in woodland environments.
Sowbread is a popular ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
The plant has been cultivated for centuries, with various cultivars developed for different flower colors and leaf patterns.
Despite its beauty, all parts of the Sowbread plant contain toxic compounds, making it unsuitable for consumption by humans and pets.
In traditional medicine, Cyclamen hederifolium has been used in small doses for certain medicinal purposes, although its toxicity limits its use.
Sowbread is known for its ability to self-seed and naturalize in suitable habitats, spreading slowly over time.
The plant is tolerant of dry conditions once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping in some regions.
Cyclamen hederifolium is deer resistant, making it a valuable addition to gardens in areas where deer browsing is a concern.
The tubers of Sowbread are dormant during the summer months, resuming growth and flowering in the cooler temperatures of autumn.
It is propagated primarily by seed or by dividing mature clumps of tubers during the plant's dormancy period.
Sowbread is sometimes grown indoors as a houseplant, although it requires cool temperatures and indirect light to thrive.
The flowers of Cyclamen hederifolium are attractive to bees and other pollinators, contributing to local ecosystems.
The plant has cultural significance in some regions, featuring in folklore and traditional ceremonies.
Cyclamen hederifolium is relatively low-maintenance once established, requiring little supplemental watering or fertilization.
It is susceptible to fungal diseases, particularly when grown in overly moist conditions, so good drainage is essential.
In some parts of its native range, Sowbread is considered invasive, spreading rapidly and outcompeting native vegetation.
The genus name "Cyclamen" is derived from the Greek word "kyklaminos," meaning circle, referring to the coiled shape of the plant's seed capsules.
Sowbread is sometimes grown as a ground cover in shady areas, providing a carpet of foliage and seasonal color.
The plant has a long history of cultivation, with records dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
Cyclamen hederifolium is also known by other common names, including Ivy-leaved Cyclamen and Neapolitan Cyclamen.
Some species of Cyclamen, including Cyclamen hederifolium, have tubers that are used in the production of cyclamine, a compound used in the pharmaceutical industry.
Sowbread is a winter-flowering plant, providing much-needed color and interest in gardens during the colder months.
Despite its toxicity, Sowbread is valued for its ornamental qualities and is a beloved plant in many gardens and landscapes around the world.