bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well); a north- or east-facing window works well. direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) scorches the leaves and direct shade prevents flowering. This plant was made for the dim corner that kills everything else.Light

Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring through summer), letting the top 50% dry out between waterings. In fall and early winter, water sparingly (water small amounts, less often. Let the soil dry out almost completely between waterings) to encourage the dormancy it needs to rebloom. Resume normal watering in midwinter.Water

Average household humidity is fine. Clivia is not fussy about moisture in the air, which is a refreshing change from most tropical plants.Humidity

65-75°F (18-24°C) during the growing season. Needs a cool rest of 50-55°F (10-13°C) for 6-8 weeks in fall to trigger blooming. It will tolerate brief dips near freezing but should not freeze.Temperature

easyDifficulty

Kafir Lily

Clivia miniata

Easy

Clivia miniata is an evergreen perennial that produces spectacular clusters of 12-20 trumpet-shaped orange, red, or yellow flowers on a thick stalk rising from a fan of broad, strap-like leaves. It thrives in low-light conditions where most flowering plants give up entirely, making it one of the most practical and rewarding indoor bloomers you can own. Give it a cool rest in fall and it will reward you every late winter with a flower show that looks like it took way more effort than it actually did.

Care Guide

How to grow Kafir Lily

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

50%

Humidity

Average household humidity is fine.

Temperature

65-75°F

Soil

Coarse, well-draining mix; an orchid

Propagation

Division of offsets (pups) is

Common Problems

Mealybugs are the primary pest;

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The genus Clivia was named in 1828 after Lady Charlotte Clive, Duchess of Northumberland, who first flowered the type specimen in England — making this one of the few plants named after a real duchess.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Contains lycorine and other alkaloids, particularly concentrated in the roots and berries. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension, tremors, and in large amounts, potentially serious cardiac effects. Keep away from pets and small children.

Sources

Clivia miniata - PlantZAfrica (South African National Biodiversity Institute) (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
Clivia miniata - PlantZAfrica (South African National Biodiversity Institute) (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
Clivia Care - Smart Garden Guide (opens in new tab)Reference
Clivia Care - Smart Garden Guide (opens in new tab)Reference
Kaffir Lily Is Toxic To Dogs - Pet Poison Helpline (opens in new tab)Reference
Kaffir Lily Is Toxic To Dogs - Pet Poison Helpline (opens in new tab)Reference
Clivia - University of Florida IFAS Gardening Solutions (opens in new tab)University Extension
Clivia - University of Florida IFAS Gardening Solutions (opens in new tab)University Extension
Clivia - Wisconsin Horticulture Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
Clivia - Wisconsin Horticulture Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension