Growing Red Hot Poker Plant (Knifophia hybrids)

Enjoy spires of Red Hot Poker’s orange and yellow tubular flowers and the hummingbirds that stop by for a sip of nectar.

This South African native plant is hardy in zones 5 to 9. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid planting it in heavy poorly drained soils or areas that tend to stay wet in the winter. This can lead to rot and even death of the plant.

The narrow sword shaped leaves can grow to 3 feet in length, adding interesting texture to the garden. Mature plants can grow to 3 feet wide and 2 to 4 feet tall.

You will find varieties with various combinations of red, yellow, cream, or white flowers. Use individual red hot poker plants as specimens or cluster in groups of three in mixed borders and perennial gardens.

A bit more information: Lots of new varieties are now available, including compact and dwarf plants. Those in California should select carefully as the species Kniphofia uvaria has been found to naturalize in parts of their state.