About Cyclamen africanum Boiss. & Reut.
The scientific name of this species is Cyclamen africanum Boiss. & Reut. Its tuber grows roots from the top, sides, and bottom, which differs from Cyclamen hederifolium: Cyclamen hederifolium only produces roots from the top and sides, not the bottom. Both leaves and flowers of Cyclamen africanum are similar in appearance to those of Cyclamen hederifolium, but they are larger on average. For Cyclamen africanum, leaf and flower stalks grow straight upward directly from the tuber. In contrast, the leaf stalks of Cyclamen hederifolium grow outward first before bending upward, creating a distinct "elbow" shape. Cyclamen africanum can easily crossbreed with Cyclamen hederifolium. Plants that nurseries sell as this species are often hybrids between these two species, which are classified as Cyclamen ×hildebrandii O. Schwarz. This is a robust hybrid that is hardier than pure Cyclamen africanum, and can be planted outdoors in sheltered locations.
