Kniphofia northiae
giant red-hot poker
An evergreen perennial producing a rosette of broad, smooth, strap-shaped leaves. The flowers have densely-packed florets opening a reddish-orange, fading through yellow to greenish-cream
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Orange Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- 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
Grow in full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil that isn’t too wet over winter. See kniphofia cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division of established clumps in late spring or by taking offshoots from the crown
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Gravel garden
- Coastal
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down old flower stems after flowering; old or dead leaves can be tidied up or removed in mid-spring
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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