Discussion

Clivia miniata

Clivia is a genus of grass and grass-like flowering plants native to the southern part of the African continent. Common names for the genus are natal lily or bush lily. Most species of clivia like shady environments. The number of clivia species is evolving as scientists learn more from DNA studies.

Today, the general consensus is that there are six clivia species. Though similar in many respects, there is some variation in the appearance of the blossoms. Three of the clivia species have blossoms similar to Clivia Nobilis, shown below.

By far the most popular clivia species, however, is Clivia Miniata. Gardeners have spread it around the world. It blossoms in the spring.

If Clivia Miniata looks similar to the amaryllis below, it is because they both belong to the same family.

Clivia Miniata blossoms come in yellow, red, and orange.

Clusters of blossoms emerge at the end of a stalk rising above the foliage. You can get a good look at the leaves in this photo, too.

The plants grow up to 2-feet high and 3-feet wide.

This photo provides a good look at the fruit of the Clivia Miniata. Each contains from 1 to a few seeds. Though they may look tasty, the 2-inch berries contain the alkaloid lycorine and are hazardous to eat.

If grown from seeds, Clivia Miniata plants begin producing flowers in 3 to 5 years. They can also be propagated by separating the fleshy root balls into smaller clumps and replanting them. That is the most common method used by commercial gardeners.

Here are some clivia in their native South African habitat.

Finally, here are calivia in someone's backyard habitat.