Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia cultivars and hybrids
Also known as torch lily, these dramatic plants are perennials with narrow grass-like leaves in clumps with tall flower heads in colours ranging from lime green to yellows, reds and oranges that often become paler as they age. Originally from South Africa, clumps are hardy and drought tolerant once established but benefit from extra water while flowering. The flowers are magnets for nectar-loving birds and insects, which visit for months on end. Plant rhizomes 10cm deep into moist soils, although they’ll establish more quickly if the soil has added compost and other organic matter. Cut flower heads off when they have finished. Some of the species, like K. uvaria are weedy, so it’s better to buy and plant the cultivars and hybrids.
