Go tubular: Clivia gardenii
There was a time when almost no-one knew what a clivia was. Then ever so slowly, these South African natives infiltrated nurseries and florists worldwide, and now they’ve become de rigueur as bedding plants in frost-free areas. Today’s designer clivias have mostly been line-bred from a single species, Clivia miniata. These hybrids feature fans of dark green leaves and umbels of cuppy, full-shaped flowers in shades ranging from butter yellow through orange to darkest carnelian.
However, if you are looking for trademark clivia colour, coupled with unusual floral shape, I suggest checking out Clivia gardenii. The same glossy foliage, the same saturated colours, but offering sensually drooping tubular flowers. For maximum impact, plant en masse under trees, or add a few specimens of C. gardenii to your container garden.
Growing tips:
• does best in partial shade, but tolerates even deep shade
• prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil or potting mix
• keep evenly moist during the summer growing season, drier during winter rest
• expect flowers from late-autumn, with gorgeous red berries to follow
