Kniphofia

Red Hot Poker is is a genus of about 70 species of evergreen or herbaceous, mostly clump-forming, rhizomatous, ornamental perennials. The evergreen species feature linear strap-shaped basal leaves and showy bottlebrush-like flower spikes. The herbaceous species have narrow, grass-like leaves. The genus is native to mountainous areas in southern to tropical Africa. Plant size ranges from dwarf to 1 1/2 feet tall, with some species reaching 6 feet tall. The genus name honors Johann Hieronymus Kniphof (1704-1763), a German physician and botanist.

Red Hot Poker prefers a rich, well-drained, evenly moist soil in full sun. Light shade is helpful if summers are hot and the plant should be sited in a location protected from wind. It will do well in sandy soils, but does not tolerate clay. This plant is slightly salt tolerant. Roots should be covered with mulch in the winter and, to avoid ice forming in the crown, you can tie the leaves together to form a roof over the crown. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this genus.

It is best not to disturb established clumps of plants, but if division is needed, sever offsets from the edge of the plant to avoid disturbing the rhizomes. When transplanting, cover the rhizomes to a depth of 4 inches. To encourage blossoms, remove spent flower spikes. Cut back foliage to 3 inches above the ground in early spring for the new growing season. You can grow species plants from seed, but named cultivars should be propagated by division to maintain a true flower color.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No significant diseases or insect pests. Root rot can be a problem is drainage is poor, especially in the winter. Thrips can be a problem.