Clivia profile to be boosted
Much-loved springflowering houseplant Clivia miniata is to have a profile boost in the UK thanks to an enterprising nurseryman.
Steven Hickman of Hoyland Plant Centre, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, has been collecting unusual and dramatic forms of clivia, having recently returned from visiting specialist breeders and collectors in Japan.
In clivia circles, unusual and striking new variegated forms and flower colour combinations, including rare green-flowered types, can change hands for the equivalent of hundreds of pounds. One green-flowered form recently sold for 300,000 yen (£1,975). The most expensive sold was a variegated Daruma form from China which achieved £46,500.
Recently awarded National Collection status, many of the rarest and most significant forms will go to build the collection and fuel Steven’s future breeding work, while others will be propagated for sale, including the much fancied yellow form C. miniata citrina. citrina
“The range of forms I saw in Japan was astonishing,” said Steven. “Family businesses have been breeding them for 50-60 years, and have crossed C. miniata with the other five pendant, tubular-flowered species, such as C. nobilis and C. gardenii, to get the other colours.
“I’ll start selling some, such as the normal and yellow forms of them, at various flower shows this year, with a view to go full sale in 2019.” ● Visit www.somethingfor the garden.co.uk, tel: 01226 744466.