Clivia miniata (Natal Lily, Kaffir Lily, Bush Lily)

Michael's Opinion

A plant that easy to grow in most homes, tolerant of low light and a degree of neglect which it gets in my home. Stunning in bloom and attractive when out of flower with its dark green, strap-like leaves.

Botanical Information

FamilyAmaryllidaceae
GenusClivia
Speciesminiata
CategoryBulbs, Perennials, Tropicals
OriginSwaziland, South Africa.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		All parts of the plant are toxic when ingested in large quantities.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9 - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1c
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)5 - 10
Height0.45 - 0.6 m
Spread0.6 - 0.9 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodJanuary, February, March, April, December

Description and Growing Information

ID CharacteristicLong green strap-like leaves topped with large funnel-shaped flowers.
ShapeClump-forming.
LandscapeLandscape, container planting and ornamental use.
PropagationDivision.
CultivationGrows best in partial shade. Water well in warmer months, allow to dry out between waterings in winter. If kept in a pot, repot carefully every 3 - 4 years. Place outside in its pot in partial shade for the summer watering as required.
PestsScale, mites, mealybug and snails.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatWoodlands.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStocky rhizomes.
Leaf DescriptionStrap-shaped and up to 60 cm in length. The stems are erect.
Flower DescriptionFlowers appear in terminal clumps on stems, funnel-shape and are 7 cm in size. Faint sweet perfume smell.
Fruit DescriptionBerry-like fruit following the flowers.
Colour DescriptionThe flowers are red, orange or yellow. The throat is yellow. The leaves are bright green. The fruit is red.
Texture DescriptionLeaves are smooth.

Photographs