Discover the beauty and potential of Interspecific Clivias – hybrid plants created by crossing different Clivia species to produce stunning flowers, unique colours, and extended blooming seasons. Loved by collectors and breeders worldwide, these hardy and versatile plants are shaping the future of Clivia breeding.
What Are Interspecific Clivias?
Interspecific Clivias are hybrids bred by crossing different Clivia species, resulting in unique plants with exceptional flower forms, colours, and bloom times.
Why Interspecific Clivias Are Gaining Popularity
Though less known to the general public, they are widely grown and collected by Clivia enthusiasts around the world, admired for their beauty and diversity.
Key Features of Interspecific Flowers
Pendulous yet larger and more open blooms than wild species
Expansive range of shapes, from semi-pendulous to upright tubular forms
Stunning colour variations and patterns
Flowering Seasons and Show Displays
These hybrids can flower anytime between May and September, with peak bloom in July—often celebrated with special interspecific shows and displays by Clivia clubs.
How Interspecific Clivias Are Bred
Breeders cross C. miniata with pendulous species like C. gardenii, C. nobilis, C. caulescens, C. robusta, or C. mirabilis. This mix of genetics drives innovation in flower form and colour.
Cultivation and Care
Water weekly in summer (if no rain), sparingly in winter
Grow in a well-drained bark-based mix with slow-release fertiliser
Feed mature plants every 3–6 months; young plants every 8 weeks
Apply systemic insecticide and fungicide twice a year
Advantages of Interspecific Hybrids
Vigorous growth and pest resistance
Extended flowering periods, sometimes multiple blooms per year
Greater diversity in flower shape, size, and colour
Underdeveloped breeding field with vast potential for new creations
The Future of Interspecific Clivia Breeding
With breeders locally and internationally producing exciting new hybrids, many believe the future of Clivia lies in the genetic potential of interspecific crosses.
