Bush lily
Also known as
Natal lily, Clivia, Kaffir lily
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Bush lily
Clivia miniata, commonly called bush lily or Natal lily, is an evergreen perennial in the Amaryllis family native to the shaded forests of South Africa and Eswatini. It forms dense fans of glossy, strap-shaped leaves arising from a short rhizome and thick, fleshy roots. In late winter to spring it produces erect stalks bearing showy umbels of funnel-shaped flowers, most often vivid orange with yellow throats; cultivars in yellow, peach, and red also exist. Flowering is promoted by a cool, drier rest in autumn. Clivia thrives slightly pot-bound, making a long-lived, heirloom-worthy houseplant for bright, indirect light or dappled shade outdoors in frost-free climates. A chunky, well-drained medium rich in organic matter prevents root rot and supports its storage roots. Pests are generally limited to scale and mealybugs, and overwatering is the chief cultural hazard. With moderate care and seasonal cues, Clivia rewards growers with long-lasting blooms and handsome foliage where many flowering plants struggle indoors.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Bush lily
Water
From spring to late summer, water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) of mix are dry, then drain completely; never leave the pot standing in water. Reduce watering in autumn and provide just enough in winter to keep leaves turgid during the cool rest. Resume regular watering when the flower stalk emerges. Use a free-draining, chunky medium so fleshy roots don’t stay soggy, and avoid wetting the crown.
Light
Provide bright, indirect light indoors—an east or bright north window is ideal; gentle morning sun is fine, but avoid harsh midday rays. Outdoors in frost-free climates, site in dappled shade under trees; deep shade reduces flowering and excessive sun bleaches or scorches leaves. Rotate the pot monthly for symmetrical growth, and dust leaves to maximize light capture. Supplemental grow lights around 10,000–15,000 lux also work well.
Nutrients
Feed lightly during active growth (spring through late summer). Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks to avoid overly soft foliage. In late summer, switch to a high-potash formulation (e.g., tomato fertilizer) to support bud initiation. Withhold fertilizer during the cool rest in autumn and midwinter. Always water first, then feed on moist soil, and flush the pot occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Temperature
Grow at 65–75°F (18–24°C) by day with slightly cooler nights. For reliable flowering, provide a 6–8 week autumn rest with nights at 45–55°F (7–13°C) and days below 65°F (18°C). Protect from frost and cold drafts; tissues are damaged near 32°F (0°C). Prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C) can stall buds and scorch leaves—increase shade and airflow in hot spells and avoid sudden swings.
