Clivia Growing Guide

Background

The genus Clivia is endemic to Southern Africa, grows in the forests of Kwazulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga and Swaziland. The habitat may vary from subtropical coastal forest to ravines in high-altitude forest. Clivia grow in dappled shade, often in large colonies. The soil is well-drained and humus rich. Occasionally they may be found growing in the fork of a tree

Most are C. miniata, but there are other species such as C. nobilis and C. robusta plus interspecific hybrids.

The genus name Clivia is after the Duchess of Northumberland, Lady Charlotte Clive, who first cultivated and flowered the type specimen in England.

Growing

Ideal for semi and full shade areas under trees with filtered light. Dappled shade is the most suitable location for growing clivia outdoors. They will also grow in heavy shade but may flower erratically. When planted in full sun, the foliage turns yellow and scorches.

Clivia also tolerate poor, dry soils. The roots store water, are spongy with the tips covered with a velamen that is able to absorb water from the air.

Clivia can be grown in warm, mild climates but do not tolerate snow or severe frosts.

When planting, trim any broken roots and plant at the same level where roots emerge. Clivia can be planted 50cm apart and look their best in mass plantings. Clivia thrive when planted under native bush or other evergreen trees. The ideal planting time for clivia is Autumn so they can establish themselves for Spring growth and flowering. 

If grown from seed clivia often take 7-10 years to flower. When mature a plant will be 60cm wide and 70cm tall. At this size the plant will have pups and can be divided at the base with a carefully positioned sharp pointed Japanese spade.

If growing in pots, clivia don’t mind being root bound but after 5 years from seed prefer a 10L pot to grow into a full size mature plant. Don’t overwater them. Water once every three weeks when the pot is completely dry.

A free draining pumice based potting mix, (such as No.8 potting mix from Mitre10) with a slow release fertilizer is appropriate for Clivia.

Fertilize in August to give the plants a boost prior to flowering. A granular fertilizer such as Triabon is ideal. Alternatively organic blood and bone with seaweed solution is appropriate. Fertilizing again in mid summer is also recommended.

Common Issues

Leaves may turn yellow and develop brown spots in full sun due to stress. Although unsightly, this scorching is not systemic or pathogenic. The damaged part of the leaves can be cut and removed.

Mealy bug and white fly can be a problem if growing indoors. Neem oil sprayed on the leaves and potting mix will deter these insects. Clivia prefer to be outdoors or in a well ventilated semi outdoor area such as a patio.