Red Hot Poker
kniphofia uvaria
Also known as: ["Torch Lily","Poker Plant"]
Overview
A striking perennial plant known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow, 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 uvaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny spot, or container in a sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; remove dead foliage in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and tidying rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching. In hot regions, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense summer sun; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if drainage is poor; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity until roots form.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Rhizome division establishes quickly (weeks); stem cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; trim dead leaves to ground level.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain tidy appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut spent flowers; remove dead leaves; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning in extreme heat; leaf drop or crown rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can damage foliage and reduce flowering. Prolonged cold may kill the crown if not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; cover with frost cloth during freezes; plant in sheltered spots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves and stress the plant, leading to reduced vigor and flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid feeds; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, the roots and rhizomes of Kniphofia uvaria can cause mild gastrointestinal distress in cats if ingested in large quantities. The effects are typically not severe but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe roots and rhizomes of Kniphofia uvaria contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if consumed in significant amounts. The toxicity is generally low and not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicKniphofia uvaria is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no known adverse effects from casual contact or ingestion of small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Red Hot Poker plants?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. They are drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Do Red Hot Poker plants attract wildlife?
A: Yes, they attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to their nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Are Red Hot Poker plants toxic to pets?
A: They are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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