Clivia history & origin

The Clivia, also known as kaffir lily or bush lily, originates in the subtropical forest on the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The unique flowers caught the attention of European explorers during the 1800’s rush to collect, name and classify rare and unusual species.  Clivias own their name to the Duchess of Northumberland, Lady Charlotte Florentine Clive, who was the first to cultivate these plants in her conservatory.

Clivias were introduced in Belgium halfway through the 19th century. Until mid-20th century, dozens of Belgian growers refined the art and craft of breeding and growing this exclusive plant. The quality got better and better and as a result we now grow a strong plant, with large, solid leaves, a stunning cluster of flowers and a unique look.

Today, the grower-craftsmen of Flandresse continue to breed and optimise the art of growing Clivias to perfection.

Flandresse
Flandresse

Clivia production

Sustainably grown, on Flemish soil 

The Clivia is produced locally and sustainably, with great passion and Flemish craftsmanship.

Strong! The perfect name for our Clivia varieties.

Not only are our Clivia varieties strong, they’re also available in a range of colours and pot sizes. And they’ve all been bred in-house. Typical characteristics are a robust, compact plant with broad, dark green leaves. And last but not least, our Clivias boast more flowers per stem.

Clivia Colours

The Clivia with the orange flowers is the best-known and most common colour. In addition, Flandresse offers you a new and exciting colour range.

Flandresse Clivia : a never-ending quest for new and better colours

In our unique breeding programme, we cross hundreds of varieties every year. This time-consuming craftsmanship, which requires a great deal of expertise, knowledge and experience, allows us to develop new varieties with better flower quality and unusual colours.