Indigenous to South Africa, red hot pokers are listed for growing in planting zones 6 through 9, but they can be hardy as far north as zone 5, especially with good drainage and mulch. In cold climates, winterize the plants by covering their crowns with mulch.

Where did red hot pokers originate?

Kniphofia /nɪpˈhoʊfiə/ is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, first described as a genus in 1794. Species are native to Africa. Common names include tritoma, red hot poker, torch lily and poker plant.

Where are red hot pokers native?

Kniphofia uvaria, commonly known as red-hot poker or torch lily, is an upright, clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial that is native to South Africa.

Where do red hot pokers grow?

Kniphofias are generally easy to grow given the right conditions. For optimum performance choose a spot in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil that isn't too wet over winter.

Are red hot pokers native to Australia?

It is native to southern Africa, from the Cape to Zimbabwe and Malawi. The plant grows in large clumps, reaching up to 2m (6′) tall, with a spread of up to 3m (10′). In south-eastern Australia it flowers from late June to late August or September. Its glorious red blooms stand out against a blue winter sky.

About Red Hot Poker Plants

38 related questions found

Are red hot pokers succulents?

Aloe arborescens (krantz aloe, candelabra aloe [or torch aloe or red hot poker]) is a species of flowering succulent perennial plant that belongs to the Aloe genus, which it shares with the well known and studied Aloe vera.

Can red hot pokers be grown in pots?

Red Hot Poker plants can be grow in containers, as well.

Select dwarf varieties, such as 'Little Maid'. Keep the container well-watered, and fertilize every 2 weeks with a liquid fertilizer.

Does red hot poker plant spread?

A mature red hot poker plant can be quite large. The one I have in my southwest garden bed that is about 3 feet wide now and it is only 3 years old. They can tolerate a bit of crowding. In addition to leaving room for the widely spreading crown, the plant also needs height, since the blooms can be as high as five feet.

What soil do red hot pokers like?

The densely packed, pendent, tubular flower heads range in colour from yellow to orange, pink and bright red (depending on variety). Flowering Period: April to October. Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Best in sand or loam.

Where should I plant kniphofia?

Grow Kniphofia in fairly light, well-drained soil and position them in full sun or partial shade. These plants often grow naturally in wetlands, so are ideal for planting around a wildlife pond (with some winter protection).

Do red hot pokers come back every year?

As fall arrives, you may see your red hot poker plant's leaves wilting. The plant will go dormant for winter and much of the foliage yellows at this time. The plant rests for several months to begin growing again in spring. ... If you tie the foliage over the center of the plant, the crown is protected and insulated.

Do birds eat red hot pokers?

We have beautiful 'Fiery Fred' red-hot pokers (kniphofia), but as soon as the flowers appear, the birds eat them. ... You could try to lure the birds away with tasty treats. Wiggly Wigglers makes British-grown birdseed mixes that might just do the trick.

Are red hot pokers poisonous to humans?

Is The Red Hot Poker Plant Poisonous or Toxic? The good news is that torch lilies aren't true lilies and are non-toxic to both humans, pets, and livestock.

Is red hot poker plant a perennial?

Virtues: Red-hot poker is a flowering perennial that erupts with hot-colored tubular blooms atop straight stems in the summer.

Can kniphofia be grown in pots?

Firstly, for smaller gardens or urban spaces, red-hot pokers can be grown well in containers.

Do deer eat red hot pokers?

Red Hot Poker Plant Features

This tough-as-nails, sun-loving perennial produces tall spikes of red, yellow, or bi-colored flowers in mid- to late summer. ... Red hot poker grows 2 to 3 feet tall and is rabbit and deer resistant.

Are red hot pokers poisonous to dogs?

Kniphofia pauciflora has no toxic effects reported.

Do hummingbirds like red hot poker?

Red Hot Pokers (Kniphofia)

And, not only will it attract hummingbirds, but bring in bees, butterflies and birds as well. ... Available in varieties with red, yellow, orange or combinations of all three, the brightly colored blooms are an alluring attraction to hummingbirds.

How fast do red hot pokers grow?

Expect germination in 21 to 28 days. In warm regions, you can also direct sow the seeds in prepared garden beds. When plants are small clumps several inches wide, transplant them to the flower bed after hardening them off.

How do you keep red hot pokers blooming?

Gardeners should be diligent with watering during hot and dry spells. Provide a 2- to 3-inch (5-7.5 cm.) layer of mulch to help with water retention and for protection during cold winters. Cut foliage off at the base of the plant in late fall and remove spent flower spike to encourage more blooms.

Are red hot pokers invasive?

Are red hot pokers invasive? Yes, red hot pokers grow using rhizomes that can lead to overcrowding and spreading of the plant. As a result, these plants can be invasive when not properly managed.

Are red hot pokers good for bees?

All of the pokers produce spikes of upright, brightly colored flowers well above the foliage, in shades of red, orange and yellow, often bi-colored. The flowers produce ample nectar while blooming and are attractive to bees and sunbirds in Africa.