Clivia

Clivia miniataAlso known as: Bush Lily, Natal Lily, Kaffir Lily

Clivia is a stunning shade-tolerant flowering plant native to South African forests. It produces dramatic clusters of 15-20 trumpet-shaped flowers atop thick stalks, rising above strap-like dark green leaves. Growing 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) tall, it's prized for its ability to bloom in low light conditions where few flowering plants thrive.

Moderate Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
50-85°F (10-29°C)

Ideal Temp
65°F (18°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, keep soil lightly moist
Summer	Every 7 days during active growth
Fall	Reduce gradually, every 10-14 days
Winter	Monthly or less during rest period, keep mostly dry

Requires dry rest period in winter to trigger blooming. Fleshy roots store water.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced fertilizer after flowering
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Stop fertilizing to prepare for dormancy
Winter	No fertilizing during rest period

Feed actively growing plants only. Stop feeding 2 months before expected bloom.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove spent flower stalks and dead leaves

Best Season: After flowering

Cut flower stalk at base after blooming. Don't remove healthy green leaves.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 3-5 years

Best Season: After flowering in late spring

Prefers to be very rootbound - essential for blooming. Use heavy pot as top-heavy when in flower.

Flowering

Season
Late winter to spring

Color
Orange, yellow, or red clusters

Large umbels of 15-20 trumpet flowers on strong stalks. Requires cool rest period to bloom.

Propagation Methods

Division of offsets when repotting
Seeds (slow - 3-5 years to bloom)
Separate offsets when they have 3-4 leaves

Common Problems

Won't bloom: Didn't receive cold/dry rest period, or pot too large
Short flower stalk: Watered too soon during cold period
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or normal aging of lower leaves
Sunburned leaves: Too much direct sun

Pro Tips

MUST have 6-8 weeks of cool (40-50F/4-10C) dry rest to bloom
Don't water when you see flower stalk until it's 6 inches (15 cm) tall
Thrives in low light - perfect for north-facing windows
Can live for decades and improves with age

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