Clivias are endemic to southern Africa. Bush Lily grows in dappled shade, often in large colonies. The soil is well drained and humus rich.

Clivia comes from, Lady Charlotte Clive who first cultivated and flowered the specimen in England, miniata comes from minius (colour of lead tetroxide) referring to the flowers.

Cliviamania began in the 1800’s when specimens were arrived to England from Kwazulu-Natal. In Victorian times this beautiful plant was very popular for indoor use in England and Europe.

Part of the fascination has been with the breeding of Clivia, both between the four species (C. nobilis, C. gardenii, C. caulescens, C. miniata) and between forms and colours within the species. Breeders select for specific traits in each generation which produces pronounced qualities such as huge, broad petalled flowers, red, yellow or apricot coloration, broad leaves, fan shaped leaf arrangement, variegation, dwarfism and many others.

Clivia miniata is a clump forming perennial with dark green, strap shaped leaves which arise from a fleshy underground stem. The leaves can reach 45 cm height and 8 cm wide. The flowering heads of brilliant orange (rarely yellow), trumpet shaped,  flowers appear mainly in spring April to May but also sporadically at other times of the year. The deep green shiny leaves make a very nice contrast to the masses of orange flowers.

Bush Lily can be propagated by seed or by removing suckers. The fruits are bright orange when ripe (or golden in the case of the yellow flowered plants).

Clivia miniata is easily cultivated and very rewarding. It should be planted in dappled shade, (they are sensitive to sunlight and will burn easily) in well composted soil. This will also help with soil water retention during dry periods. The plants should be watered regularly during the summer months which is their growing season. Watering can be reduced during winter and the plants will tolerate fairly long dry periods.

Bush Lily is frost tender and may be damaged if in a position that is exposed, to cold winds especially. It takes a long time for the damage to grow out if this happens, so it is best to select a sheltered site. The roots are reportedly extremely toxic but are used medicinally for various purposes.

Use in Landscape: Clivia miniata should use in shade and protected areas in mild climates. Bush Lilies are spectacular container subjects. They should be grown in a well drained potting medium which has plenty of compost added.