The Dream Series: A Clivia Collection Born to Inspire
By Carrie Krüger – Utopia Clivias
What Dreams Are Made Of
Eight years ago, I encountered a group of young Clivia seedlings that immediately captured my attention. At just three years old, they stood apart from anything I had seen in our interspecific lines—broad-leafed, strong-growing, and remarkably large for their age.
These exceptional plants were selfed seedlings of a Nakamura-bred interspecific, grown from seed by Kerneels Buitendag. From a very limited batch of only eight to ten seeds, something truly outstanding had emerged. I was deeply impressed and knew I wanted to include them in our collection.
Fortunately, Kerneels agreed, and these plants have since developed into some of the most robust and distinctive Clivias in our nursery.
The Beginning of the Dream Series
When the first plant flowered, it was immediately clear that this line was special. The bloom displayed a large, semi-open form with delicate white picotee edging along each tepal. The effect was subtle yet striking, giving the flower an elegant and refined appearance. I named this first plant “Dreaming.”
That flowering marked the beginning of what is now known as the Dream Series. Every plant in this collection carries the characteristic picotee-type edging combined with bold flower form. The foliage is equally impressive, with semi to broad leaves reaching up to 90 mm in width. The result is a strong, show-quality plant with excellent structural presence.
Named Selections Within the Series
As additional plants reached maturity and flowered, each demonstrated consistent traits while also expressing its own individuality. These selections have been carefully named to reflect their character and contribution to the line:
Dream Catcher
Sweet Dreams
Apricot Dreams
Dream On
Future Dreams
Dream of Hearts
Day Dreamer
Dreamscapes
While each selection has unique qualities, all share the defining characteristics of the Dream Series: strong plant structure, broad foliage, and exceptional flower form with distinctive edging.
A Breeder’s Perspective
One of the most valuable attributes of the Dream Series is fertility. These plants produce viable pollen and set seed successfully, making them highly suitable for breeding purposes. I have already incorporated them extensively into our interspecific programme and look forward to evaluating the next generations.
Some seedlings already show early indications of variegation, which adds further potential to this line. With strong genetics, distinctive flower markings, and robust growth habits, the Dream Series offers excellent promise for future hybrid development.
Formal Registration
The Dream Series is now being formally registered on the International Clivia Register and Checklist. This ensures that these selections are properly documented and preserved within Clivia breeding history.
It is both an honour and a responsibility to maintain and develop this collection for future generations.
Looking Ahead
As these plants mature and new crosses begin to flower, I will continue documenting their progress and sharing emerging traits. The Dream Series represents only the beginning of what we believe will become an important breeding line within our programme.
For collectors, breeders, and Clivia enthusiasts, this is a line to watch closely. The foundation has been laid, and the potential is significant.
Follow our breeding journey and discover more at www.utopiaclivias.co.za
Visit us in person at Utopia Clivias, 20 Crane Walk, Sedgefield, South Africa.
