Kniphofia caulescens
caulescent red-hot poker
An evergreen perennial to 1.2m, with short, stout stems bearing tufts of broad-based, grey-green leaves. Fat spikes of flowers open deep coral-red, soon changing to light lemon-yellow
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Red | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Kniphofia may be evergreen or herbaceous perennials, with linear or strap-shaped leaves and erect stems bearing a dense raceme of tubular, usually pendent flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa, Lesotho
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil that isn’t too wet over winter. See kniphofia cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division of established clumps in late spring. Propagate by taking offshoots from the crown
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Gravel garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down old flower stems after flowering; old or dead leaves can be tidied up or removed in mid-spring
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.