Clivia miniata ‘Belgian Orange’ is a premium selection of the classic Bush Lily, highly favoured in Australian gardens for its reliability and spectacular winter-to-spring colour. This variety is known for its particularly broad, strap-like leaves of deep forest green, which grow in an elegant fan shape. The foliage remains lush and architectural year-round, providing a high-quality evergreen presence in the most difficult shaded parts of the garden.
The real show begins in late winter when sturdy stalks emerge, topped with large, rounded heads of brilliant, fiery orange flowers, usually featuring a contrasting yellow throat. These blooms are not only visually striking but also very long-lasting. Once the flowering finishes, they are often followed by ornamental red berries. ‘Belgian Orange’ is specifically bred for its vigorous growth and intense flower pigment, making it a standout performer under the canopy of large trees or in shaded courtyards.
Care Tips
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Position: Must be grown in dappled to deep shade. The broad leaves will yellow or scorch quickly if exposed to the direct, harsh Australian afternoon sun.
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Climate: Prefers temperate to subtropical climates. It is relatively frost-tender; in colder regions like Canberra, it should be kept in a protected spot or under a solid roof during winter.
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Soil: Requires very free-draining soil rich in organic matter. They have thick, fleshy roots that are prone to rot in waterlogged or heavy clay soils.
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Watering: Low to moderate water requirements. They are incredibly drought-tolerant once established due to their water-storing roots. Reduce watering significantly during the winter months to encourage better flowering.
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Fertilising: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser or a slow-release organic feed in spring after the flowering has finished.
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Pruning: Very low maintenance. Simply remove spent flower stalks at the base and pull away any old, yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy.
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Maintenance: Clivias actually bloom better when their roots are slightly crowded, so avoid repotting too frequently if growing in containers.
