Clivia

Description

An exceptional plant for thriving in lightly shaded gardens, patio locations and under trees. Clusters of funnel to trumpet shaped flowers in dense umbels are borne on straight stems of 50 to 60cm tall above broad, dark green strap-like leaves in spring and occasionally in autumn/winter. Flowers may be followed by attractive red, berry-like fruits. All varieties will cope well with extended dryness once established. Clivia are suitable for sub-tropical, temperate and cool climate regions.

Cultivation

Clivia should be grown in a lightly sunny or part shaded garden position with protection from frost. Note that they can be grown in full sun but the leaves will scorch and if grown in deep shade they may not flower well. Plant them in a moist, light to medium, free draining soil that has been enriched with compost and or well decayed cow manure. Water in well at planting time and then on an occasional basis through spring/summer to promote growth but keep fairly dry in winter. They are surface rooted and dislike soil disturbance. Protect them from snails and slugs.


Family: Amaryllidaceae
Native to: Southern Africa
Flowering: Summer
Watering: Drought Tolerant
Planting Aspect: Part Shade, Full Shade
Climate Zones: Temperate, Subtropical, Tropical, Grassland