Bush lily - Clivia miniata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Bush lily

Also known as: Fire lily

The bush lily is a flowering green plant that grows best in woodland environments. It is native to South Africa. It gives off a fragrant scent, but is toxic and poisonous if eaten. In the wild, bush lily plants tend to grow together in clumps.

Scientific classification

Species

Bush lily (Clivia miniata)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

45 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

Orange, Yellow, Red

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Orange, Red

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Bush lily

Distribution of Bush lily

Distribution Map

Bush lily is native to damp woodland habitats in Southern Africa but also grows in parts of Southern Mexico as an introduced species. This is a showy garden plant that is grown ornamentally in the US, particularly California, in East Asia, and Australasia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

From subtropical coastal forest to ravines in high-altitude forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

Natal lilies can purify air, absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and absorb dust.

Garden Use

The bush lily is prized for the ornamental value of its striking trumpet-shaped flowers. It is commonly grown in containers in warmer climates. It is prized as a low maintenance, slow-growing plant that flowers throughout winter to spring. Its color is well complemented by the Red Camellia, Nasturtium, and Golden Shrimp.

Symbolism

Noble, man of honor, unyielding, resolute

Interesting Facts

The natal lily originated in South Africa. It was discovered by the British Powell and others in 1823 and brought back to England. A natal lily was planted in the luxurious garden of Duchess Clive in Northumberland, northern England. The Latin name of the natal lily "Clivia" came from the name of Duchess Clive.

Name Story

Bush lily: It is an attractive plant and its dark green leaves and trumpet-shaped orange flowers made it popular like an international star. In Victorian times, this beautiful plant was very popular in Europe because it was often planted as a hedge of shrubs. Hence, it was called bush lily.

Kaffir lily: The plant gives out a faint sweet scent when it blossoms and it is called Kaffir Lily when planted in South Africa despite it is an offensive term in South Africa.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bush lily, including the following common varieties :

Bush lily 'Aurea'

Toxicity

Bush lily is highly toxic to cats; every part, especially the bulbs, can cause severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially fatal cardiac issues. Dogs may also be poisoned by eating the bulbs or berries, leading to heart irregularities and severe dehydration. Immediate veterinary care is recommended for both animals.

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Quickly Identify Bush lily

Strap-like leaves, 2 feet (60 cm) long, glossy and dark green, creating a lush backdrop.

Clusters of pale orange blossoms atop erect stalks, contrasting with deep green foliage.

Large, funnel-shaped flowers, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm), vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Fruit with bright red, fleshy berries, 1/2 inch in diameter, containing large round seeds.

Basal leaves forming a graceful arch, 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long, bright green and strap-shaped.

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Care Guide for Bush lily

Every week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bush lily thrives in moist, indirect light environments, preferring even moisture in soil. Weekly watering maintains hydration while avoiding saturation. As an evergreen, bush lily benefits from higher humidity, achievable through misting or using a pebble tray, making it suitable for indoor cultivation.

Fertilize: To optimize bush lily's growth, use high nitrogen fertilizers monthly in spring and summer at a quarter strength. Reduce to bi-monthly in fall and winter. Water before fertilizing to prevent root burn and flush accumulated salts quarterly for potted bush lily to ensure healthy growth.

Pruning: Bush lily features vibrant orange flowers and green leaves. Prune in early to late spring after blooming to enhance shape and health. Remove spent flowers, yellowing leaves, and damaged foliage to promote growth, improve air circulation, and strengthen structure.

Propagation: Bush lily propagates mainly through its tubers in Spring. While propagation may be moderately difficult, success is signaled by new shoot growth. For optimal results, use healthy, mature tubers.

Repotting: Repot bush lily every 2-3 years after flowering and before spring growth. Use a slightly larger pot to support its dense root system. Post-repotting, provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist to promote healthy recovery and vibrant blooms.

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