Cyclamen Meaning and Symbolism

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Cyclamen is a perennial plant that belongs to the primrose family. It has over 20 species that are native to various regions of Europe, Asia and Africa. Cyclamen is known for its beautiful flowers that resemble butterflies and its heart-shaped leaves that have silver patterns. Cyclamen flowers come in different colors, such as white, pink, red, and purple, and each color has its own meaning and symbolism. In this article, we will explore the cyclamen flower’s meaning and symbolism in different cultures and contexts.

History of Cyclamen

The history of cyclamen is quite interesting too. Cyclamen is a genus of 23 species of perennial flowering plants in the family Primulaceae. They are native to Europe and the Mediterranean region, east to the Caucasus and Iran, with one species in Somalia. Cyclamen plants are valued for their flowers with upswept petals and variably patterned leaves.

Cyclamen’s name comes from the Greek word kyklaminos, derived from kyklos, meaning “circle”. This refers to the round and flattened shape of the tuber, which is the storage organ of the plant. The tuber also gives rise to the common name of sowbread or swinebread, based on the Medieval Latin panis porcinus, because it is said to be eaten by pigs.

The botanical name of the most popular species, Cyclamen persicum, is misleading. However, it does not originate from Persia (Iran) but from the Middle East. It naturally grows in countries such as Palestine, Syria, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Tunisia and some Mediterranean islands . It was introduced in Europe at the end of the 16th century or the beginning of the 17th century, passing first through France or Great Britain.

Cyclamen Flower Meaning and Symbolism

Cyclamen has a long history and rich symbolism in different cultures and traditions. Here are some of the meanings and symbolism associated with cyclamen:

Deep love: In Japan, cyclamen is considered the holy flower of love, rumored to be the offspring of Cupid. It is a symbol of deep and lasting affection that can overcome any obstacle. Cyclamen is also a traditional gift for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
Devotion and empathy: In the Mediterranean region, cyclamen is a symbol of devotion and empathy. It expresses loyalty, compassion, and understanding for someone who is going through a difficult time. Cyclamen is often planted in churchyards and near monasteries as a sign of reverence and spirituality.
Resilience and strength: Cyclamen is a symbol of resilience and strength because of its ability to survive cold and dry seasons and bloom again with vigor. It represents hope, renewal, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Cyclamen is also a protective plant that can ward off negative energies and bring good luck.
Farewell and parting: In some interpretations, cyclamen is a symbol of farewell and parting. It can be given as a gesture of saying goodbye or expressing sadness for someone who is leaving. Cyclamen can also signify the end of a relationship or a phase in life.
Motherly love and nurturing: this plant is a symbol of motherly love and nurturing because of its heart-shaped leaves and soothing scent. It can be gifted to mothers or mother figures to show appreciation and gratitude for their care and support. Cyclamen can also represent fertility and childbirth.

Cyclamen by color

The color of the cyclamen flower can also affect its meaning and symbolism. Here are some examples:

White cyclamen: White is a color of purity, innocence and elegance. White cyclamen can symbolize perfection, grace and honesty.
Pink cyclamen: Pink is a color of playfulness, femininity and spontaneity. Pink cyclamen can symbolize joy, fun and friendship.
Red cyclamen: Red is a color of passion, desire and seduction. Red cyclamen can symbolize intense love, attraction and romance.
Purple cyclamen: Purple is a color of mystery, creativity and charm. Purple cyclamen can symbolize imagination, inspiration and spirituality.

Cultivation and Varieties

The cyclamen was neglected in the 18th century, but became fashionable again in France in the 1900s. Since 1860, the first variants of the wild cyclamen appeared in England and Germany, with larger flowers and varying color shades. They are the ancestors of our current varieties.

Today, new cultivation methods and hybrid varieties offer longer-lasting, hardier and more regular flowering and a wide range of colors. The most common variety is the florist’s cyclamen, which was developed in Europe from Cyclamen persicum for use as a gift plant. It blooms in the winter when other plants are difficult to grow and it can tolerate cool temperatures.

Cyclamen are usually grown indoors as houseplants, but some species can be grown outdoors in mild climates. They prefer bright indirect light, well-drained soil and moderate watering. They go dormant in summer and resume growth in autumn.

These plants are beautiful and versatile flowers that can add color and charm to your home. They have various meanings and symbolism that can suit different occasions and moods. Whether you want to express love, admiration, resilience or farewell, cyclamen flowers can help you convey your message with grace and elegance.