Clivia miniata

Clivia miniata

Kaffir lily

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Kaffir lilyBush lily

Context

nativeRegion

South Africa (Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal).

usdaZones

9–11 (grown indoors in cooler climates).

companionPlants

Aspidistra, Ferns, Begonia

culturalUses

Ornamental houseplant and shade garden specimen; valued for long-lasting flowers and foliage.

Care

LightBright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun as it can scorch leaves.

WateringWater moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter dormancy.

SoilWell-draining potting mix, ideally a peat-based or loamy mix enriched with organic matter.

FertilizerFeed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growth period (spring/summer).

HumidityPrefers moderate humidity; tolerates average indoor humidity levels.

TemperatureIdeal range is 15–25°C (59–77°F). Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEvergreen, clumping perennial with strap-like leaves.

Mature Size45-60 cm (18-24 inches) tall and wide.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingBlooms in late winter to spring with clusters of orange, red, or yellow flowers.

DormancyShort dormancy period in winter; requires a cool, dry rest to induce flowering.

MethodsDivision, Seed

DifficultyEasy (by division), Moderate (by seed)

Best SeasonDivision in spring after flowering; sow seed in late spring.

PruningRemove spent flowers and dead leaves as needed; minimal pruning required.

RepottingRepot every 3–5 years or when overcrowded. Roots prefer to be slightly pot-bound.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and fungal rots if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested (contains lycorine and other alkaloids).

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