Clivia plants, also known as bush lilies or Natal lilies, are evergreen perennials native to South Africa. They thrive in shaded forest environments, making them ideal for indoor cultivation. Clivias are prized for their striking orange, yellow, or red trumpet-shaped flowers and glossy, strap-like leaves. To care for them indoors, it's essential to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible.
Clivia plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so place them near an east- or north-facing window. If natural light is insufficient, supplement with fluorescent or LED grow lights. Avoid sudden changes in light exposure, as this can stress the plant and inhibit flowering.
Clivias thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C–24°C). They can tolerate brief drops to 50°F (10°C) but are sensitive to frost. Maintain moderate humidity levels (40%–60%) by misting the leaves occasionally or placing a humidity tray nearby. Avoid placing the plant near drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents, as extreme temperature fluctuations can harm it.
Water Clivia plants thoroughly but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering causes leaf tips to brown. Reduce watering frequency in winter when the plant enters dormancy. Use lukewarm, filtered water to avoid shocking the roots or leaving mineral deposits on the soil.
Clivias require well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well. Repot every 2–3 years in spring, using a pot just slightly larger than the root ball. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Clivias prefer being slightly root-bound, which can encourage flowering.
Feed Clivia plants monthly during the growing season (spring to summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing leaf burn. Flush the soil with water every few months to remove excess salts.
To promote flowering, provide a cool, dry rest period in winter (6–8 weeks at 50°F–55°F or 10°C–13°C) with reduced watering. Return the plant to its usual spot in late winter to trigger bud formation. Mature plants (3–5 years old) are more likely to bloom. Remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to foliage growth.
Trim yellow or damaged leaves at the base using sterilized scissors. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. Inspect regularly for pests like mealybugs or spider mites, treating infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even growth.
Clivias can be propagated by division or seeds. Division is simpler: separate offsets (pups) from the mother plant during repotting, ensuring each has roots. Plant in fresh soil and water sparingly until established. Seed propagation takes longer (2–3 years to flower) and requires fresh seeds sown in a warm, moist medium.
Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Brown leaf tips suggest underwatering or low humidity. Lack of flowers often results from insufficient light or skipped dormancy. Root rot requires immediate repotting into dry soil. Adjust care routines gradually to avoid further stress.
