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Herbaceous Perennial

Kniphofia uvaria

red-hot poker

An herbaceous perennial reaching approximately 120cm in height when in flower with green, linear strap-like leaves and spikes of tubular orange flowers that emerge from firey red buds in summer and autumn.

Other common names
flame flower
Synonyms
Kniphofia burchellii
Kniphofia aloöides
see moreKniphofia patersoniae
Tritoma recurva
Kniphofia bachmannii
Kniphofia occidentalis
Kniphofia odorata
Tritoma burchellii
Tritoma uvaria
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red Orange Green
Autumn Red Orange Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Asphodelaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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 (SW Cape)

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 or by taking offshoots from the crown

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Architectural
  • Coastal
  • 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

May be susceptible to aphids, thrips, slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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