CLIVIA (Cliv'ia)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of several evergreen plants with bulbous roots. These plants are natives of South Africa and belong to the Amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae. These plants are suitable for growing as houseplants and outdoors in frost-free climates. Clivias, also known as Kaffir Lilies, produce dark green, strap-like leaves, which grow to about 2 feet long. In late winter or spring, tall stalks shoot up from the leaves and bear clusters of 12 to 20, brightly colored blossoms. Their long-lasting flowers are usually orange with yellowish centers, but there are forms that bear scarlet, dark red, salmon, and yellow flowers.

POTTING: Clivias are fairly easy plants to grow. A division that is potted in a 12-inch container will bloom and multiply abundantly for 10 years or more before it needs to be repotted. Clivias can be grown outdoors year-round in zones 9 and 10. Elsewhere, they can be grown as houseplants or in containers outside and brought in during the winter. Grow Clivias in a well-drained, organic, acid to neutral soil. Fibrous loam, some coarse grit, decayed manure and leaf mold make a good potting mixture. Choose a location with partial to deep shade, as direct sun will cause leaf scorch. The bulbs should be planted in the fall or spring. Cover the plump roots with just a thin layer of soil. The white part of the stem should be almost buried. Clivias need to be watered and fertilized regularly while in active growth. Afterward, water sparingly. If growing Clivias in containers, avoid disturbing them. Try to divide them only when they become overcrowded.

PROPAGATION: Clivias can be increased by division, or offsets, in late spring or early summer after the plants have flowered. Take care when dividing, so that the thick roots aren't damaged. The seeds take almost a year to ripen, gradually changing from green to dark red. As soon as they are ripe, sow them in a moist potting medium kept at 80º to 85º F.

SPECIES: C. miniata & var. citrina; C. nobilis; C. Gardenii; C. cyrtanthisflora; C. caulescens.

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