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Amaryllidaceae HERB BOTH Placement Primary: Other

Clivia

Clivia miniata

Identified By Unknown Guest

Clivia is a stunning genus of perennial evergreen plants native to woodland habitats in South Africa, belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. Renowned for their glossy, strap-shaped dark green leaves and clusters of vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of orange, red, yellow, and salmon, they are exceptionally popular indoor container plants. Thriving in bright, indirect light and cooler indoor temperatures, clivias require minimal maintenance and prefer a distinct resting period during the winter months to encourage blooming. Because they store water in their fleshy root systems, they are somewhat drought-tolerant, though overwatering can easily lead to root rot. Their striking blooms usually appear in late winter or early spring, bringing a brilliant burst of color to shaded indoor spaces or protected outdoor patios.

Also known as: Kaffir Lily Bush Lily

Toxicity & Safety

Is Clivia toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

Clivia plants contain toxic alkaloids, particularly lycorine, which are concentrated heavily in the fleshy roots and bulbous bases, though present throughout the entire plant. If ingested by dogs, cats, or other household pets, it can cause severe toxicosis leading to symptoms such as excessive drooling, intense vomiting, severe diarrhea, lethargy, and in large quantities, a drop in blood pressure and respiratory depression. Immediate veterinary attention should be sought if ingestion is suspected.

Is Clivia toxic to humans?

Yes, toxic to humans.

Ingesting any part of the Clivia plant, especially the roots and stems, can result in human poisoning due to the presence of harmful alkaloids like lycorine. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, violent vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. While rarely fatal, accidental consumption requires prompt medical evaluation and supportive care to manage gastrointestinal distress and prevent severe dehydration.

Is Clivia safe during pregnancy?

Caution advised during pregnancy.

Due to the toxic alkaloids found in Clivia, including lycorine and other amaryllidaceae toxins, pregnant individuals should completely avoid handling damaged plant parts without gloves or ingesting any portion of the plant. The systemic toxicity and potential to induce severe gastrointestinal distress, uterine contractions, or systemic complications pose a significant risk to both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy, necessitating extreme caution.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 30 - 60 cm
Width 45 - 90 cm
Growth Rate Slow
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 10°C - 24°C
Sunlight Hours 3 - 6 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 6 - 7
Watering Interval 10 - 20 days
Humidity 40.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 9 - 11

Subtropical and Temperate Regions

Climate: Thrives in mild, frost-free environments with high ambient humidity and protection from harsh afternoon sun.

Soils: Loam Peat Chalk
Annual Rainfall: 600 - 1200 mm

Native Regions

South Africa (ZA – Africa)

How to Care for Clivia

How should I handle sunlight?

Place in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct harsh sunlight which can scorch the leaves.

How should I handle soil and fertilizer?

Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during the spring and summer growing season.

How should I handle watering your clivia?

Allow the top several centimeters of soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. During the active growing spring and summer seasons, water thoroughly when dry, but significantly reduce watering frequency during the cooler autumn and winter months to provide the necessary dormancy period that triggers spring flowering.

How to Propagate Clivia

How to propagate Clivia by seed?

Sow fresh seeds in moist potting soil, keeping them warm and humid until germination occurs.

How to propagate Clivia by division?

Carefully separate the natural offsets or pups that form around the base of a mature clivia plant during the repotting process, ensuring each division retains a healthy portion of roots and several sturdy leaves before planting them in individual containers.

Common Diseases & Pests of Clivia

What is Root Rot and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Foliage turns yellow, wilts, and softens at the base. The roots become brown, mushy, and foul-smelling instead of firm and white.

Treatment:

Remove the plant from its container, carefully trim away all infected and decaying roots using sterilized tools, and repot in fresh, fast-draining potting soil.

Prevention:

Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes and never allow the plant to sit in standing water within saucers or cachepots.

Properties & Benefits of Clivia

Bears Fruit

Key Nutrients / Compounds

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