Clivia miniata var. citrina (Yellow Clivia)

Prized for its brilliant flowers, Clivia miniata var. citrina (Yellow Clivia) is a luminous rhizomatous evergreen perennial boasting large clusters of 20-40 trumpet-shaped, creamy-yellow flowers in late spring, summer, or fall. Slightly fragrant, the blossoms, 2.5 in. long (7 cm), feature broad overlapping tepals and yellow throats. They are borne atop erect, thick stems above the dense foliage clump of lustrous, light to deep green, strap-shaped, arching leaves. Long-lasting, the flowers are followed by ornamental, bright yellow, or red-speckled berries which remain on the plant for months. When the plant is not in bloom, its lush, virtually blemish-free, evergreen foliage still provides a sculptural presence. Native to South Africa and Swaziland, this gorgeous tropical plant is damaged by freezing temperatures lower than 30°F to 25°F (-1°C to -4°C) and is best in frost-free areas. Yellow Clivia is a valuable, long-lived addition to beds, borders, or containers and is often grown as a houseplant. Good as cut flowers too!

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 12-24 in. tall and wide (30-60 cm).
• Easily grown in bright filtered light with shade from the hot sun in well-drained soils. Water freely in summer and allow to dry for winter. The soil should be moist until the flower stalk reaches 6 inches (15 cm), then water normally.
• Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer weekly when in growth up to flower bud formation.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for mealybugs. Root rot, yellow spots on the leaves, or failure to form a flowering stalk may occur if too much water is provided.
• Best flower production when the plant is pot-bound. However, it should be repotted every 3-4 years in late winter or early spring. Take care to untangle the roots carefully as Natal Lily resents root disturbance.
• Propagate by seed at 60-70°F (16-21°C) as soon as ripe or by division in late winter or early spring.
• All parts may cause a stomach upset if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats.
• Native to South Africa and Swaziland.