Kniphofia uvaria
red-hot poker
An herbaceous perennial reaching approximately 120cm in height when in flower with green, linear strap-like leaves and spikes of tubular orange flowers that emerge from firey red buds in summer and autumn.
Other common names
flame flowerSynonyms
Kniphofia burchelliiKniphofia aloöides
see moreKniphofia patersoniae
Tritoma recurva
Kniphofia bachmannii
Kniphofia occidentalis
Kniphofia odorata
Tritoma burchellii
Tritoma uvaria
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Orange | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red Orange | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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 (SW Cape)
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
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Architectural
- 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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