Kniphofia

Red-Hot Poker

Native to eastern and southern Africa these upright, tufted plants with strappy leaves are a great edition to Adelaide gardens.

The are at their best in Summer when they produce tall dense stems with brightly coloured tubular flowers. The most common flower form is the flame coloured variety, although plant breeders including German, Max Leichtlin (1831-1910) have produced varieties in ivory, pink and orange.

Kniphofia are best planted in clumps in open areas where the entire plant is visible and is attractive to bees, butterflies and birds. 

Red-Hot Poker’s is the most common species and grows to 1.5 metres tall. They prefer full sun, well drained soil and enjoys plenty of water in Summer. They will benefit from a good layer of mulch to maintain good soil moisture. It will survive long dry periods and therefore is perfect for Mediterranean conditions. Being wind tolerant they can be planted in coastal locations.

Fertilise in Spring for Summer flowers and you can dead head stems and leaves regularly in autumn to promote more flowers.

Disease and Insect problems are uncommon so buy a few today and enjoy the flower display this Summer.

Propagation can be from seed on division in spring or late Autumn, although division may reduce flowering for the next few years.