Is Clivia a Succulent?

Clivias are not true succulents, although they share some features with succulent plants. Clivias (Clivia miniata and related species) are evergreen perennials from South Africa that grow in shaded forest floors. Unlike succulents, which store water in thick leaves or stems, clivias store energy and moisture in their fleshy roots and rhizomes. This adaptation allows them to withstand short dry periods, but they still need regular moisture in their growing season and are not drought plants like aloes or cacti.

Clivia Growth Habit

Clivias form dense clumps of strap-shaped leaves, reaching 40–70 cm tall. They flower in late winter to spring, producing bright clusters of orange, yellow, or cream blooms. After flowering, they continue to grow foliage and offsets, slowly expanding over time.

Why People Confuse Them with Succulents

The confusion comes from their ability to tolerate short dry spells and their thick root systems, which resemble the water-storing traits of succulents. However, clivias still require regular watering, rich soil, and seasonal fertiliser to thrive.

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Clivias vs Succulents

Water needs: Succulents thrive in arid conditions, while clivias need consistent moisture in the growing season but reduced water in winter.
Light: Succulents love full sun, but clivias prefer dappled shade or bright indirect light.
Storage: Succulents store water in leaves or stems; clivias store energy and some moisture in fleshy roots.
Fertiliser needs: Succulents require lean feeding, while clivias demand richer nutrition to fuel flowers and leaf growth.

What Clivias Really Are

Clivias belong to the Amaryllidaceae family, making them relatives of hippeastrums and amaryllis, not succulents. They are perennial, shade-tolerant ornamentals that can live for decades if given proper care. They are best thought of as hardy shade perennials with storage roots, not as drought-hardy succulents.

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Caring for Clivias Correctly

Because clivias are not true succulents, they need more consistent watering and richer feeding. Keep soil evenly moist in spring and summer, allow partial drying between drinks, and reduce watering in winter to trigger flowering. Mulch roots to keep them cool, and avoid planting them in full sun.

Best Fertiliser for Clivias

Unlike succulents, clivias respond best to regular feeding with a balanced fertiliser. The top choice is CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid Fertiliser NPK 20-20-20. Apply at 4 ml per litre every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer to support green leaves, strong roots, and reliable flowers. Pause fertiliser in winter to allow dormancy, then resume in early spring.

FAQs

Do clivias store water like succulents? Only in their roots, not in leaves or stems like true succulents.
Can clivias survive drought? They tolerate short dry periods but need regular watering for good flowering.
Are clivias low-maintenance? Yes, once established they are hardy, but they still require feeding and seasonal care.
What family are clivias in? Amaryllidaceae — related to amaryllis and hippeastrums, not succulents.