Clivia (St. John's Lily) is a beloved South African classic, ideal for planting beneath trees or in shaded spots where few other plants thrive. With vibrant trumpet-shaped blooms in spring and bold, strap-like leaves year-round, it makes a striking feature plant for any garden.
Why You'll Love It:
• Indigenous and shade-loving
• Spring-flowering with bold blooms
• Low maintenance and drought-tolerant once established
• Perfect for Cape Town's waterwise gardeners
• Excellent in mass plantings or containers
• Grows well with minimal care
• Ideal for Western Cape's winter rainfall gardens
Planting & Care:
Plant Clivias in dappled shade or beneath trees where the soil stays cool. Use well-draining soil enriched with compost and water regularly during the growing season, reducing in winter. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Feed lightly in late winter with an organic or slow-release fertiliser to support spring flowering. Keep mulch around the base to hold moisture and protect the roots, and allow clumps to thicken naturally for a fuller display over time.
| Botanical Name | Clivia Miniata (Belgian Hybrid) |
| Growth Expectancy | 70cm H x 50cm W |
| Position | Semi-Shade / Shade |
| Water Smart | Yes |
| Indigenous | Yes |