Cyclamens are long flowering - usually from April through winter and into spring. Some are perfumed and they are available in a rich tapestry of colours ranging from white, to pink, red and mauve. Cyclamens aren't fussy, but they do need some general maintenance. When the flower is finished, don't rip it off, push the stem and twist at the same time to remove without damaging the core. During summer cyclamens are dormant, so put the pot on its side in a shady spot in the garden. By January they will start to re-grow and that's the time to repot them.

Cyclamen are also susceptible to botrytis or grey mould, which occurs mostly in cool, humid conditions. Spray the centre of the plant with a fungicide or remove the dead leaves or flowers. Cyclamen hate being in hot stuffy rooms and particularly dislike central heating so take them outdoors at night. These plants thrive in cool temperatures and do well in a brightly lit spot, especially on a patio or verandah. Water cyclamens at ground level but don't water the leaves because they can get a fungus problem. In the garden cyclamens do well amongst other shrubs and will live for a long time.