Neither easy to care for nor harmless to humans and animals, the Clivia is not equally suitable for every household. But if you have neither children nor pets, then you will find an extremely attractive houseplant here.
As beautiful as it is, the clivia is unfortunately poisonous
The alkaloids contained in the clivia lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased salivation and sweating when consumed. In the worst case, paralysis and kidney damage can even occur. Pets such as dogs and cats react to the clivia in a similar way to humans. In the event of poisoning, take the animal to the vet immediately.
Even touch is not without danger for sensitive people, it can lead to skin irritation. It is best to wear gloves when repotting or dividing the plant, so you do not come into contact with the plant sap and avoid a reaction. Water and fertilize your clivium judiciously to minimize the risk.
Choose the right location
If you would like to have a clivia despite its toxicity, be sure to give it a suitable place. The plant should be placed out of the reach of frolicking children and curious pets, even if they may only visit infrequently. Light, but not too warm, that's how the decorative clivia likes it best. A window to the east or west is very suitable, a south-facing window less so.
The essentials in brief:
- contains alkaloids
- toxic to humans and animals
- Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, sweating, increased salivation, diarrhea, in the worst case kidney damage and paralysis
- leads to skin irritation
tips
If you have small children or a pet, then it is better to look for another houseplant, clivias can cause severe symptoms.