 |
 ntroduced |
|
Common name: Kaffir Lily, Bush lily
Botanical name: Clivia miniata Family: Amaryllidaceae
Clivia- after the Duchess of Northumberland, Lady Charlotte Clive who first
cultivated and flowered the type specimen in England. miniata - colour of red
lead - referring to the flowers. In Victorian times this beautiful plant was
very popular for indoor use in England and Europe. Kaffir lily is a clump
forming perennial with dark green, strap shaped leaves which arise from a
fleshy underground stem. The flowering heads of brilliant orange (rarely
yellow), trumpet shaped flowers appear mainly in spring (August to November)
but also sporadically at other times of the year. The deep green shiny leaves
are a perfect foil for the masses of orange flowers.
Kaffir lily can be propagated by seed or by removing suckers. The fruits
are bright orange when ripe (or golden in the case of the yellow flowered
plants)
All parts of Kaffir lily are somewhat poisonous and may cause mild upset
stomach if ingested. Sap from the leaves or roots may irritate sensitive skin.
Clivia are native to south Africa.
|
