Kniphofia rooperi
Rooper's red-hot poker
K. rooperi is an evergreen perennial to 1.2m, with long, arching angled leaves and dense rounded spikes of tubular bright red flowers fading to yellow, in autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Red Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Kniphofia may be evergreen or herbaceous perennials, with linear or strap-shaped leaves and erect stems bearing a dense raceme of tubular, usually pendent flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Best grown in a sandy soil that has been enriched with humus, but any deep, moist but well-drained soil will do. Good drainage in winter is essential. Full sun is best; can tolerate partial shade but flowering is reduced
Propagation
Propagate by division of established clumps in late spring. Propagate by taking offshoots from the crown
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Old flower stems can be cut down after flowering. Trim back old winter damaged foliage in spring
Pests
Can be damaged by slugs and snails. Thrips may cause mottling of the foliage
Diseases
Generally disease free, if winter drainage is good. Violet root rot may be a problem
Get involved
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