Clivia (Clivia miniata) and Amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.) are both popular flowering houseplants, prized for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage. While they share some similarities, their care requirements differ significantly due to their distinct origins and growth habits. Clivia is native to South Africa and thrives in shaded, forest-like conditions, while Amaryllis originates from tropical regions of South America and prefers brighter light. Understanding these differences is key to ensuring their healthy growth and blooming.
Clivia: Prefers indirect or filtered light and can tolerate low-light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch its leaves. Ideal locations include north-facing windows or shaded patios.
Amaryllis: Requires bright, direct light to thrive. A south or west-facing window is ideal. Insufficient light can lead to weak stems and reduced flowering.
Clivia: Needs moderate watering during active growth (spring and summer) but should be kept drier in winter. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Amaryllis: Requires consistent moisture during active growth but should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings. During dormancy (after flowering), reduce watering significantly to prevent bulb rot.
Clivia: Thrives in moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C) and prefers higher humidity. Avoid exposure to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Amaryllis: Prefers warmer temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C) during growth but can tolerate cooler conditions during dormancy. Humidity is less critical for Amaryllis compared to Clivia.
Clivia: Requires well-draining, organic-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, reducing feeding in winter.
Amaryllis: Grows best in a well-draining, sandy or loamy mix. Use a high-phosphorus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth to support blooming. Stop fertilizing during dormancy.
Clivia: Enters a rest period in late fall to early winter. Reduce watering and keep it cool (50–55°F or 10–13°C) for 6–8 weeks to encourage spring flowering.
Amaryllis: Requires a dormancy period of 8–10 weeks in late summer or fall. Store the bulb in a cool, dark place and withhold water to trigger reblooming. Resume watering to initiate new growth.
Clivia: Propagated by division of offsets (pups) after flowering. Seeds are an option but take several years to mature into flowering plants.
Amaryllis: Easily propagated by separating bulb offsets or by seed. Bulb division is the fastest method for producing new flowering plants.
Clivia: Susceptible to mealybugs, scale, and root rot if overwatered. Yellowing leaves may indicate excessive light or poor drainage.
Amaryllis: Prone to aphids, spider mites, and bulb rot. Weak or floppy stems often result from insufficient light or overwatering.
