How to Grow Clivia Lily
iNaturalist
Clivia Lily
Clivia miniata
flowerClivia miniata is an elegant, clump-forming houseplant with long, dark green, strap-like leaves and striking clusters of bright orange, trumpet-shaped flowers. Native to South Africa, it is a popular indoor ornamental prized for its vibrant blooms and evergreen foliage that adds year-round visual interest to homes and offices.
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Example Clivia Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Clivia Lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Clivia Lily blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Clivia Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; best grown as a houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my Clivia Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-6 monthsSmall plants with 2-4 narrow green leaves emerging from soil; very slow growth initially
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright, indirect light; maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F); high humidity beneficial
Juvenile Vegetative
2-3 yearsPlant develops multiple leaves forming clumps; leaves elongate and deepen in color; no flowering yet
Continue moderate watering; apply diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; repot every 1-2 years into slightly larger container
Pre-flowering
Variable, triggered by cool periodPlant reaches maturity with full clumps of 8-12+ leaves; buds begin forming at the center
Provide cool winter dormancy period (50-60°F for 4-6 weeks) to trigger flowering; reduce watering; withhold fertilizer during dormancy
Flowering
3-4 weeks per clusterTall flower stalk emerges from leaf center bearing clusters of 10-20+ vibrant orange, funnel-shaped flowers; some varieties yellow or red
Do not move plant while flowering; avoid cold drafts; maintain moderate moisture; provide bright light to prolong blooms
Fruiting & Rest
2-3 monthsFlowers fade; red or orange seed pods develop; foliage remains evergreen; plant enters reduced growth phase
Allow seed pods to develop if desired for propagation; resume normal watering and fertilizer schedule after flowering concludes; plant may rebloom with proper winter dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plant; use cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to spot-treat
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Remove manually with soft brush; treat with neem oil or horticultural oil spray every 7-10 days
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Spray with insecticidal soap; rinse under running water; apply neem oil if infestation persists
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh, sterile soil; may require fungicide application
Uses
Indoor Ornamental
HouseholdClivia miniata is a stunning houseplant that brightens interior spaces with vibrant orange flowers and lush, evergreen foliage. Its elegant appearance makes it a popular choice for living rooms, offices, and conservatories. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and various pollinators in outdoor settings, supporting local ecosystems and adding dynamic movement to gardens. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floristry
CraftLong-lasting orange flower clusters are prized by florists for exotic bouquets and arrangements; blooms remain fresh for several weeks in water. [source]
Traditional African Medicine
MedicinalIn traditional South African and Zulu medicine, Clivia miniata has been used to treat various ailments, though scientific validation remains limited. [source]
Air Purification
HouseholdAs an indoor plant, Clivia miniata contributes to air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, enhancing indoor environmental health. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Clivia miniata is grown for ornamental flowers and foliage, not harvested for food. Enjoy blooms for 3-4 weeks; cut flower stalks at base after flowers fade unless saving seed pods. Red seed pods mature over 8-10 months and can be collected for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Clivia miniata is named after Charlotte Clive, Duchess of Northumberland, an 18th-century patron of horticulture, and 'miniata' refers to the red-orange ('minium') flower color.
- 🌱 The plant can live for decades with proper care, with some specimens flowering reliably for 20+ years, making it a long-term investment piece.
- 🌱 In its native South African habitat, Clivia miniata grows as an understory plant in coastal forests and is pollinated primarily by sunbirds, which are attracted to its bright orange flowers.
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