Clivia miniata

Natal lily is a broadleaf, evergreen, herbaceous perennial that is native to South Africa and Swaziland. The plant is found growing in the subtropical forests and bushlands of southern Africa.

This plant is a member of the  Amaryllidaceae (onion) family. It has a clumping habit and strappy or sword-like, dark green leaves. The strong fleshy stem supports a cluster of 12 to 20, large, funnel-shaped flowers that are dark scarlet-orange with a yellow throat. The flowers are showy, long-lasting, and may be used as cut flowers. If pollinated, it produces red berries. The plant grows up to 2 feet high and 3 feet wide and resembles the amaryllis; however, the flowers of the natal lily are smaller.

The genus name, Clivia, is in honor of Lady Charlotte Florentina Clive who was a Duchess of Northumberland. The genus was named in 1828 by John Lindley, a Kew botanist. The specific epithet, miniata, is Latin and means cinnabar red or "red oxide of lead." This references the orange-red color of the flowers.

In a tropical environment, the natal lily requires dappled sunlight to deep shade. In North Carolina, where it is grown as a houseplant, morning sun is best. It prefers to be kept rootbound and can remain in the same pot for as long as five years. It is drought tolerant. Water early in the day and provide good air circulation. When potted, it will flower best when given a dormant, rest period of a month or two with nighttime temperatures below 50 degrees. 

In warmer climates such as USDA Zones 9 to 11, the natal lily can be grown as a herbaceous perennial. It takes a few years for a natal lily plant to bloom, so it is best to purchase a mature plant unless you are very patient.

Quick ID Hints:

• dark green, thick, and strap-like leaves with a glossy leathery texture.
• strong, thick, fleshy stalk
• long-lasting, dense clusters of 12 to 20 funnel-shaped flowers that are dark scarlet-orange with yellow throats, blooming early winter to mid-spring
• fruits are berries that are initially green and turn red

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs, scales, and mites. If planted outdoors, snails may feed on the flowers.  Overwatering can cause crown rot. Overhead watering can cause leaf diseases such as rust. 

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.