Tips On Growing Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) is a genus of showy perennials native to southern Africa, with most species found in the Republic of South Africa. Preferred growing conditions: Red Hot Pokers thrive in a wide range of soils including clay. Although not particularly picky about soil, red hot poker does seem to do well in loose soil that drains well. It will benefit from the addition of organic matter, such as compost, before planting. This perennial actually likes the soil to be a bit dry as long as it is not TOO hot. If it sits in wet soil, the crown of the plant can easily rot.
Common Name: Red hot poker
Genus: Kniphofia
Species: caulescens
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Clay/heavy, Acidic, Chalky/alkaline, Moist
Height: 100cm
Spread: 60cm
Time to plant seeds: February to May
Time to divide plants: March to April
Most red hot pokers (kniphofias) are grown primarily for their showy, torchlike flower heads, but this unusual species is also valued for the tufts of blue-green narrow leaves. The 1m tall flowers arrive in late summer and are yellow and coral red. This plant is toxic If eaten and can irritate eyes and skin.
Looks good with:
Helenium 'Moerheim Beauty'Red Hot Poker Plant Care
Growing Red Hot Poker
Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila'
Comments are closed.