Flowering of holiday cacti is controlled by temperature and daylength. Good, consistent care is especially important during flower bud development. Moving plants from one location to another, drafts, and excessive watering during flower formation may cause the buds to drop off the plants. The cyclamen is the ideal flowering plant for a cool environment. The distinctive plant has dark green, heart-shaped leaves with silver markings.
Flower colors are available in shades of white, pink, and red.
Select healthy, dark green plants which have just begun to flower. A check beneath the leaf canopy will reveal the number of unopened buds. The cyclamen should be placed in a sunny, cool location. Keep the soil moist, but avoid getting water in the crown of the plant as it may promote rotting. Fertilize the plant every 2 weeks while in bloom.