Nobilis Clivia
clivia nobilis
Also known as: ["Bush lily","Kaffir lily"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with evergreen strap-like leaves and clusters of orange-red flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Clivia |
| Botanical Name: | Clivia nobilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade; adjust for stronger light in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; keep away from harsh direct sun; ideal for indoor bright spots or dappled outdoor shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light; provide shade in intense summer.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy potting mix with added sand
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) in winter promote flowering.
Keep away from drafts; maintain cool winter temps for blooms; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth, none in winter
Reduce feeding in dormant periods; apply after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or division of offsets; seeds take longer but are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets with roots.
- Plant in new pots.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand for seeds; offsets can be planted in standard potting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for offsets; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 4–6 weeks; seeds can take 6 months to germinate and several years to bloom.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, small pots, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use mature offsets for faster results; keep seedlings consistently moist; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; cut flower stalks just above the foliage.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves and spent flower stalks to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining mix with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 3–4 years; prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; minimal disturbance to roots.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches root zone without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during winter dormancy (every 4–6 weeks), increasing to every 1–2 weeks in spring/summer when actively growing. Reduce frequency in fall as growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Ensure good drainage; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may be inhibited in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Clivia nobilis. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects, necessitating prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Clivia nobilis can lead to significant toxicity due to the presence of alkaloids. Symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to more severe conditions requiring veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClivia nobilis contains toxic alkaloids, primarily lycorine, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Clivia nobilis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Clivia nobilis need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Clivia turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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