The Cyclamen

Cyclamen repandum S.et S. Fam. Primulaceae.

Characteristics: herbaceous plant with onion-shaped, rounded, non-corky tuber. Smooth, thin, irregularly-shaped triangular leaves; purplish-pink flowers.

Habitat: thickets and ilex woods; more rarely in deciduous woods.

Uses and properties: the rhizome and roots contain cyclamina,a toxic substance used in homeopathy to cure certain ailments.