Kniphofia, also sometimes called Tritoma, Red Hot Poker, Torch Lily or Poker Plant, is a genus of plants in the family Xanthorrhoeaceae, that includes 70 or more species native to Africa. Some species have been commercially used horticulturally, and are commonly known for their bright, rocket-shaped flowers. Set atop green, grass like foliage, these red hot poker plants spark up your space while adding vertical interest. The winner of this jackpot gets rich, long lasting color all summer long. Red hot poker, or touch lily plants grow best in full sun to part shaded locations with fertile, well-drained soil. Red Hot Poker produces striking bold colored flowers atop tall stems. Perennial gardeners often use them as big focal points in the garden. Easy to grow and a great choice for a beginner gardener. A tremendous favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies alike and thus an excellent exotic pollinator choice. Poker face red hot poker plants bloom for weeks in midsummer, and finishes cleanly enough to enjoy sporadic re bloom as well. With its day-glow firecracker look in deep orange to red shades, and with good drainage in a sunny location, it is easy to care for, has few pests and diseases that bother it, and is drought tolerant once established. We offer a nice selection of Kniphofia plants for sale. Each Red Hot Poker plant is grown and shipped with well-established root systems. Guaranteed Satisfaction. Buy now for quick shipping!
There are 68 species in the genus Kniphofia, all originating in southern and eastern Africa. They form clumps of grass-like finely toothed foliage with strong stems rising above the foliage with flowers that look-like glowing pokers or torches, hence the common name.
The blossoms open from the bottom to top over the course of several days and change color as the blossoms mature. Most varieties begin blooming by late June and some will re-bloom until frost.
Hybridizing has led to many different colors and sizes of plants for the gardener to choose from. Flower color ranges from coral red through shades of orange, peach, yellow to near white and light green. Size ranges from dwarf plants 14 inches tall to large 6 feet tall plants. Some are evergreen and some deciduous dependent on the species.
Kniphofia are a plant that can be used in the garden to make a statement, such as the 3 feet tall Kniphofia 'Apricot Soufflé', or used as a vertical accent in the perennial border. It is also has a unique structural look with the flowers stems rising above the foliage that would be a great addition to a tropical garden paired with purple or red-foliage cannas, or a more xeriscaped garden planted with Perovskia, Echinacea, and Penstemon.
Some of the smaller varieties also make nice additions to containers for summer bloom, and evergreen varieties give year-round interest. Kniphofia are attractive to hummingbirds and make a great addition to the hummingbird garden. They also make a great cut flower.
Kniphofia ‘Apricot Souffle'
Spikes of apricot flowers bloom June through August above deciduous strappy foliage reaching 3 ft tall and wide. Zone 6.
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Kniphofia ‘Gladness'
This blooms early summer with apricot flowers emerging from deep orange buds. A smaller, evergreen torch lily reaching 30 in. tall and 24 in wide. Zn 6.
Kniphofia uvaria ‘Flamenco'
Classic yellow, orange, red flower spikes in June.
Grows 18-24' tall with blooms up to 36'.
Thrives in full sun zones 5-9.
Popsicle series
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A newer award winning series with a huge array of dazzling colors. Graton casino spa reviews complaints.
Grows 24-30' tall, compact 14-16' wide.
Very long bloom season summer to fall.
Zones 6-9
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We have a wonderful selection of perennials year round, but if you are looking for a specific perennial we will have the best selection when it is in bloom around town. Note: Native plant pages will take you into the Native Plant section.
