Clivia Tipperary Peach

Common Names: Clivia, Natal Lily, Bush Lily (specific cultivar: Tipperary Peach)

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Origin and Habitat

Clivia miniata, including the Tipperary Peach cultivar, 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 subtropical climate with moderate rainfall and dry winters.

Plant Description

Tipperary Peach is a cultivar of Clivia miniata, renowned for its delicate peach-colored flowers, part of the "European Peaches" genetic group. It forms clumps of evergreen, strap-like, dark green leaves that arch gracefully, typically growing to 45–60 cm in height. The standout feature is its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, which appear in clusters of 8–20 on tall stalks in late winter to early spring. The flowers are a soft peach hue, often with yellow or greenish throats, and may show slight color variations due to genetic diversity. This cultivar is prized for its elegant, pastel-toned blooms, distinguishing it from the more common orange-flowered Clivias.

Care Instructions

Light

Tipperary Peach 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 flower colors. Protect from intense midday sun.

Watering

Water moderately during the growing season (spring and summer), keeping the soil moist but not soggy. 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 sparingly to prevent complete drying out. Overwatering can cause 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

Tipperary Peach is a collector’s favorite due to its rare peach-colored blooms, often used in breeding programs to produce consistent peach or pink-flowered Clivias. It can be propagated by dividing offsets or sowing fresh seeds, though seedlings may take 4–6 years to flower and may not always breed true to the peach color, with some reverting to cream or yellow. 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. Tipperary Peach is ideal for shaded garden beds, large containers, or indoor displays, adding a soft, sophisticated charm to plant collections.