Clivia Charl's Green x Hirao

Common Names: Clivia, Bush Lily (specific cultivar: Charl’s Green x Hirao)

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Origin and Habitat

Clivia miniata, including the Charl’s Green x Hirao cross, originates from South Africa, particularly in shaded forest floors and rocky outcrops in regions like KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. These plants thrive in well-drained, humus-rich soils under dappled shade, often growing beneath trees or shrubs in their native habitat. They are adapted to subtropical climates with moderate rainfall and dry winters.

Plant Description

Charl’s Green x Hirao is a hybrid of Clivia miniata, resulting from a cross between the rare Charl’s Green and Hirao cultivars, both prized for their green-throated flowers. This hybrid forms clumps of evergreen, strap-like, dark green leaves that arch gracefully, typically reaching 30–60 cm in height. The standout feature is its trumpet-shaped flowers, which appear in clusters on sturdy stalks in late winter to early spring. The flowers exhibit creamy green to pale yellow-green petals with darker green throats, often accented by yellow-orange stamens. The exact flower color and intensity can vary due to the genetic diversity of the cross, but it often leans toward the unique green shades inherited from both parents.

Care Instructions

Light

This Clivia hybrid thrives in bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Indoors, place near an east- or north-facing window with filtered light. Outdoors, it prefers shade or partial sun, as direct sunlight can scorch leaves or cause yellowing. Protect from intense midday sun.

Watering

Water moderately during the growing season (spring and summer), keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. In autumn and winter, reduce watering significantly to mimic its natural winter rest period, watering only enough to prevent complete drying out. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Soil

Use a well-draining, loam-based potting mix with added leaf mold or compost for nutrients.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures range from 16°C to 24°C. It can tolerate brief drops to -2°C but must be protected from frost. In colder climates, grow indoors or in a greenhouse during winter.

Additional Information

Charl’s Green x Hirao is highly sought after by Clivia enthusiasts for its rare green-flowered traits, making it a collector’s gem. It can be propagated by dividing offsets or sowing fresh seeds, though seedlings may take 4–6 years to bloom. The cross is noted for its potential to produce compact plants with intense green flowers, and it’s often used in breeding programs to develop pure green or white-flowered Clivias. The plant is susceptible to mealybugs and fungal issues if overwatered or grown in poorly ventilated conditions. It’s mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. This hybrid is ideal for shaded garden beds, large containers, or indoor displays, adding an elegant, exotic touch to collections.