Clivia miniata is native to South Africa and has always been quite popular in shady Bay Area landscapes. This handsome evergreen perennial is slow-growing and features dark green, strap-shaped, foliage. In late spring, stunning blooms appear on stiff stems above the foliage in colors that range from yellow to pale orange to electric red—depending on the variety. The fragrant, trumpet-like flowers are similar to amaryllis but smaller in scale. Clivia prefers somewhat moist soil and it does best when it is slightly dry between deep watering. Seasonal fertilizing also helps to promote healthy blooming.