$25 · Clivia house plant in bloom

Clivia plant in bloom! Clivia, also called bush lily, is an elegant flowering plant and a good alternative to other winter-blooming plants such as azaleas, amaryllis or holiday cactus. The orange long-lasting flowers are produced in dense clusters of 12 to 20 flowers on top of a thick stem that pushes up from between a fan of evergreen, strap-like leaves. For best results, grow Clivia in bright diffused light such as a bright north window, or an east or west window shaded from the sun. They can be moved outside for the summer (in the shade or acclimate slowly to brighter conditions so they don’t sunburn), but must be brought in before freezing weather. During the growing season, water regularly but allow the growing medium to become dry to the touch between waterings. They can be fertilized monthly with half-strength fertilizer solution. Allowing a rest period for about two months in fall and winter encourages the plants to flower. They need a minimum of a month of cool nighttime temperatures (below 50°F (10°C) degrees but remaining above freezing; they can tolerate temperatures down to about 36°F (2°C)), followed by 6-8 weeks with very little water (just enough so the leaves do not wilt) and no fertilization. Once the flower stalk appears, increase watering and return the plant to room temperature.