Flower lovers came from different corners of the Lowveld to marvel at and smell those colourful plants.  Clivias only occur naturally in South Africa, though there are two species in Swaziland.

Their popularity, however, has reached all corners of the globe. They have been cultivated for over 50 years and there are many artificial hybrids in a variety of colours.

Clivias have become an obsession for collectors around the world. The Lowveld Clivia Club has been hosting the competition for the past 12 years. The club’s Chris Welgemoed said the drought season had hampered the development of the plant, but contestants did their best.

“The clivias are not at their best because of the weather. Contestants tried their best, despite the drought and heat during winter. Clivias enjoy the cold so they can store energy,” said Welgenoed.

Dr Neethling du Toit, owner of Agri Biotec Research Consultancies, scooped the top honours of the show for his yellow clivia. “It is good to win. I’m doing this for the love of the plants,” he said. He shared how he sustained his precious clivias during the drought. He filled a large container with water and fertiliser, and placed the plant inside so that it absorbed enough water. “It was important for me to keep insects away with the correct insecticide spray.”