Bold pokers of tubular flowers glow red, orange and yellow above grassy clumps, brimming with nectar for honeyeaters. Tough, drought-hardy and dramatic in the summer border.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria is a moderate-growing perennial in the Asphodelaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and semi-deciduous foliage. Red, orange and yellow flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Red Hot Poker
Red Hot Poker suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice, tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is deer-resistant.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Red Hot Poker provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Red Hot Poker is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Red Hot Poker after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Red Hot Poker in the garden
Red Hot Poker earns its place for drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden, a feature or specimen planting, cut flowers for the vase and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Red Hot Poker with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Red Hot Poker
Plant Sale lists Red Hot Poker as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.