Red Hot Poker

Common Names

Red Hot Poker, Torch Lily, Tritoma, Flame Flower

Summary

Kniphofia uvaria is a rhizomatous South African perennial commonly called red hot poker or torch lily, forming a clump with long, grass-like leaves and tall flower spikes bearing dense racemes that start red and mature to yellow. Spikes rise above the foliage in summer to autumn, creating a two-toned display that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

In cultivation it prefers full sun and well-drained soil, tolerates drought once established, and is hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Propagation is by division or seed; it can be used as a striking specimen, in mass plantings, borders, or as a cut flower, and is deer- and rabbit-resistant with generally good pest and disease resistance in proper drainage.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-4 feet

Spread

24-36 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun, tolerates Partial Sun and Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained soil, preferably loam or sandy-loam, rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil that retains moisture without waterlogging.

Soil pH

6.0-8.0, Neutral

Bloom Color

Red, orange, and yellow

Bloom Time

Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf, Semi-deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies