Clivia plants, often called Natal Lilies, are cherished for their striking foliage and vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, which typically bloom in shades of orange, yellow, or red. These resilient South African natives have become popular houseplants due to their relatively easy care and the significant visual impact they bring to indoor spaces.
Essential Care Requirements
Clivia plants thrive when provided with specific conditions that mimic their natural woodland habitat. Providing the right environment is important for their sustained health and growth.
Bright, indirect light is ideal for Clivias. Direct sun exposure, particularly intense midday or afternoon sun, can scorch their leaves, leading to discoloration and damage. A north-facing window or an east or west window with filtered light, perhaps through a sheer curtain, provides suitable conditions.
Proper watering techniques are crucial to prevent root rot, which Clivias are susceptible to if kept in overly wet conditions. Their fleshy roots store water efficiently, allowing them to tolerate some drought. Water thoroughly, then allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely before watering again. During their active growing season in spring and summer, they will require more frequent watering compared to the dormant period in fall and winter.
Clivias prefer a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic, with a pH generally between 5.5 and 6.5. A suitable blend often includes components like pine bark, peat moss or coco coir, and perlite or coarse sand to ensure good aeration and drainage. This composition prevents waterlogging.
Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels supports a Clivia’s well-being. During the growing season, temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15-29°C) are generally preferred. Clivias do not require high humidity and adapt well to typical home humidity levels, so misting is not necessary. They are sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 40°F (5°C) can cause damage.
Regular fertilization during the active growth period is important. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formulation, diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly from spring through summer. Some growers switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer during the flowering period to encourage more blooms. Fertilizing should be withheld during the plant’s dormancy period to allow it to rest.
Encouraging Blooms
Encouraging Clivia blooms requires a specific dormancy period. This seasonal rest is important for flower bud formation.
During this time, which should last for at least 40 days and ideally 6 to 12 weeks, the plant needs to be kept in a bright, cool location where temperatures remain below 55°F (12.8°C) but above freezing, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Watering should be significantly reduced or even stopped during this period, providing just enough water to prevent the leaves from wilting. This cool, dry spell mimics the winter conditions in their native South Africa and signals to the plant that it is time to prepare for flowering.
Once the dormancy period is complete, the plant can be gradually transitioned back to warmer conditions and a regular watering schedule. As flower buds begin to appear, usually when the flower stalk is about 6 inches tall, watering should be increased to support the developing blooms. Resuming a regular half-strength fertilization regimen will also provide the energy needed for a robust bloom display. Moving the plant to a warmer spot, around 60-65°F (15-18°C), after dormancy also helps the flower stalk elongate properly.
Repotting and General Maintenance
While Clivias are relatively low-maintenance, occasional repotting and general upkeep contribute to their long-term health and vigor. These plants prefer to be somewhat root-bound, meaning their roots are comfortably crowded within the pot.
Repotting is necessary only every three to five years, or when roots become excessively crowded and begin to push out of the drainage holes or rise above the soil surface. The best time to repot is typically in early spring after the plant has finished flowering. When repotting, select a new container that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the previous one, ensuring good drainage.
Routine maintenance tasks include cleaning the broad leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which hinders photosynthesis. After flowering, remove spent flower stalks by cutting them at their base. This prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production, redirecting it instead towards foliage growth and future blooms.
Addressing Common Problems
Clivias can sometimes encounter issues. Recognizing and addressing common problems helps maintain plant health.
Yellowing leaves are a sign of improper watering, either overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes leaves to turn yellow and mushy. Conversely, insufficient water can also cause leaves to yellow and wilt. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry between waterings typically resolves this.
A lack of blooms is often attributed to an insufficient dormancy period. Inadequate light during the active growing season can also contribute to a lack of flowering. Addressing these environmental factors is important for encouraging future floral displays.
Common pests that can affect Clivias include mealybugs and scale insects. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, often found in leaf axils or on roots. Scale insects attach themselves to stems and leaves as small, raised bumps. Regular inspection helps detect these pests early; they can often be removed manually or treated with appropriate horticultural oils.