Clivia

Clivia, also known as Clivia miniata, is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant, commonly grown for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in a range of colors, including orange, red, yellow, and cream. Native to South Africa.


Light

  • Ideal Light: Bright, indirect light.

    • Clivias thrive in bright, but not direct, sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch.

  • Tolerates: Low to medium light.

    • Clivias can tolerate lower light conditions, but flowering may be reduced or delayed.

Temperature

  • Optimal Temperature: 60°F to 75°F 

  • Clivia is a warm-loving plant that does best in moderate indoor temperatures.

  • Minimum Temperature: Do not expose to temperatures below 50°F

Watering

  • Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.

    • During the growing season (spring and summer), Clivias should be watered more frequently, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

    • In fall and winter, the plant enters a dormant period and requires less water. Water less frequently during this time.

Fertilizing

  • Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring through summer).

    • During the fall and winter, the plant is in dormancy and does not need fertilizing.

  • Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) or one specifically formulated for flowering plants.

    • Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding.

  • Signs of Overfertilizing: Brown leaf tips or edges, or excessive leggy growth without flowers.

Pruning

  • Why Prune: To remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks.

  • How to Prune: Cut the flower stalks back to the base once the flowers have faded. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves by cutting them off at the base of the plant.

    • Avoid cutting off healthy leaves, as they are essential for the plant’s overall health.

Flowering

  • Flowering Time: Clivias bloom in late winter to early spring (typically February to April), producing vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers.

    • The flowers can last for several weeks.

  • Flowering Tips:

    • To encourage blooming, allow Clivias to experience a period of cool rest (a few weeks with reduced water and cooler temperatures) in late fall or early winter before they begin their growing season.

    • Some varieties may flower more readily when slightly root-bound.