Red-hot poker
kniphofia linearifolia
Also known as: ["torch lily","flame lily"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with tall spikes of tubular flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Kniphofia |
| Botanical Name: | Kniphofia linearifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but performs best with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; remove spent flower stalks as needed during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove only dead or overgrown foliage to avoid stressing the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warmer conditions.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–80°F or 21–27°C); indirect light for cuttings; full sun for divided rhizomes.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated directly in the garden.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division can produce new plants immediately; stem cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–5 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and foliage; water sparingly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base; trim foliage carefully to avoid damaging healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and appearance; cut back flowering stems after blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove only dead/damaged parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; overcrowding can reduce flowering.
Checklist
Choose a larger pot; use fresh soil; trim roots if necessary; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may damage flower buds; prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); ensure soil drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; stress may increase susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply to cool roots; increase humidity around the plant if grown in containers.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKniphofia linearifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicKniphofia linearifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicKniphofia linearifolia is not known to have toxic effects on humans under normal conditions. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Kniphofia linearifolia be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during dry spells.
Q: Does Kniphofia linearifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Kniphofia linearifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
