Clivia Miniata Yellow

Common Names: Clivia, Natal Lily, Bush Lily (specific cultivar: Miniata Yellow)

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Origin and Habitat

Clivia miniata, including the Miniata Yellow cultivar, is native to South Africa, particularly in shaded forest floors and rocky outcrops of 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 subtropical climate with moderate rainfall and dry winters.

Plant Description

Miniata Yellow is a cultivar of Clivia miniata, celebrated for its striking yellow flowers, a rare variation from the typical orange blooms of the species. It forms clumps of evergreen, strap-like, dark green leaves that arch gracefully, typically reaching 45–60 cm in height. The standout feature is its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, which appear in clusters of 10–20 on sturdy stalks in late winter to early spring. The flowers are a rich, creamy yellow, sometimes with a faint greenish or white throat, offering a bright and elegant contrast to the foliage. This cultivar is highly valued for its vivid color and compact growth.

Care Instructions

Light

Miniata Yellow 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 fade the vibrant yellow flowers. 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 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

Miniata Yellow is a prized choice among Clivia enthusiasts for its rare and cheerful yellow blooms, often used in breeding to develop other yellow or pastel-flowered hybrids. It can be propagated by dividing offsets or sowing fresh seeds, though seedlings may take 4–6 years to bloom and may not always retain the pure yellow color, sometimes producing cream or orange variations. The plant is susceptible to mealybugs and fungal issues if overwatered or grown in poor ventilation. It is mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Miniata Yellow is ideal for shaded garden beds, large containers, or indoor displays, bringing a bright, tropical elegance to any collection.