I remember as a child on holiday in Devon, seeing these brightly coloured and unusual flowers growing on an embankment. It later inspired me to have a go at growing Kniphofia from seed with excellent results.
I have always known the many varieties of Kniphofia as ‘Red Hot Pocker Plant‘ – a name given to them for reasons that require no explanation. They also known as the Torch lily, Poker plant and Tritoma. These hardy African perennials plants cover over 70 species and belong within the Asphodelaceae family.
Kniphofias as nectar rich and flower over a long period during summer, so a welcome source of food and energy for nectar feeding insects in any garden. Most varieties are evergreen, producing thick, long blade-like leaves in various shades from silver to pale green. Kniphofias are wind resistant and make for good cut flowers.
Place your plants either in full sun or partial shade in a rich soil. Water well to encourage healthy growth and flower development. Kniphofia plants can be propagated by seed or plant division. Although Kniphofia is generally pest and disease free, you may need to keep a look out for slugs and snails and earwigs damage.
Varieties of Kniphofia to try
Kniphofia Species Mixed |
 Kniphofia Hirsuta Traffic Lights |
 Kniphofia (Tritoma) Mixed Hybrids |
 Kniphofia – Red Hot Poker |
Kniphofia Species Mixed
An exclusive blend of mixed species, including a complete spectrum of colours, heights and different flower spikes. Colours ranging from yellows, reds, oranges and bronze with some having an unusual hint of green. Ideal for brightening any herbaceous border. Height: 75-120cm (30-48in).
Kniphofia Hirsuta Traffic Lights
A personal favourite of mine. An intriguing dwarf red hot poker with unusual red, amber and green flower spikes. First year flowering, adding interest to borders and containers. Height: 30-40cm (12-16in). *Sow Sept/Oct to flower the following season.
Kniphofia (Tritoma) Mixed Hybrids
Solid stemmed, enormous spikes of blooms, colours including lemon yellow, golden yellow, bicoloured red and yellow, red and cream. Should flower in their second year from seed. Ideal for sunny borders and good for cutting. Flowers summer to autumn. Height: 70-90cm (30-36in).
Kniphofia – Red Hot Poker
The Torch Lily. Torch-like flowers in sizzling colours.