With their bold, brightly colored flower spikes, red hot poker plants (Kniphofia species) are sought after by gardeners looking to add exotic drama to their landscapes These South African natives are also called torch lilies or poker plants for their shape. If you’re considering adding these eye-catching perennials to your own yard, read on to learn more about purchasing red hot poker plants for sale and how to grow them successfully
Red Hot Poker Plant Characteristics
Red hot poker plants are clump-forming perennials with grassy, straplike leaves They are named for their tall, densely packed flower spikes that open from the bottom up, resembling a red-hot fireplace poker. Flower colors include vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, coral, and bicolor combinations
Most red hot poker varieties bloom in late spring through early summer, with a potential rebloom in fall depending on your climate. Flowers last up to a month on upright spikes rising 2-5 feet above the foliage. Hummingbirds are highly attracted to the tubular blooms.
Once finished flowering, the seed heads persist into winter, providing visual interest along with food and shelter for birds. The clumps spread slowly over time to form impressive specimens. Mature clump sizes range from 2-4 feet across depending on variety.
Choosing Red Hot Poker Plants for Your Garden
With dozens of red hot poker varieties available, selecting the right one for your needs is important. Consider these factors when shopping for plants:
-
Flower Color – Choose from solid oranges, yellows, reds, pinks, or dramatic bicolors.
-
Bloom Time – Most flower in spring/early summer. Some rebloom in fall.
-
Height – Dwarf types grow 12-24 inches tall. Larger varieties reach 4-5 feet.
-
Hardiness Zone – Most red hot pokers thrive in zones 5-9. Select cold-hardy types for northern zones.
-
Space Needs – Check expected mature size to allow enough room in garden bed.
-
Sun Exposure – Grow in full sun for best flowering. Part sun also works.
Consulting online descriptions will help you select a variety tailored for your growing conditions and ornamental preferences.
Where to Buy Red Hot Poker Plants
You can purchase red hot poker plants from local garden centers, nurseries, or online retailers. Here are some of the best sources:
-
Local Nurseries – Many garden centers sell a selection of the most popular varieties in spring and fall. This allows you to see plants in person before purchasing.
-
Mail Order Nurseries – Reputable online nurseries offer a diverse assortment of poker plant varieties not found locally. Plants are shipped bare root or in pots.
-
Plant Swaps & Sales – Connect with other gardeners to swap perennials. Check for divisions offered at plant sales and auctions.
-
Online Marketplaces – Search for listings from nurseries and individuals selling plants on sites like eBay or Craigslist.
For the widest selection, mail order nurseries and online marketplaces are your best source for finding unique red hot poker varieties.
How to Plant and Grow Red Hot Pokers
With a few basic care tips, red hot poker plants are easy to grow in most climates:
-
Plant in spring after the last frost. Choose a spot with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
-
Space plants 18-24 inches apart in groups or staggered rows. Dig holes twice the width of the root ball.
-
Set the crown at soil level and backfill with native soil. Water thoroughly after planting.
-
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
-
Water weekly during the first year, aiming for 1-2 inches of water per week from rain and irrigation.
-
Cut back spent flower stems in late fall or early spring. Divide congested clumps every 3-4 years.
-
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced organic product to support growth and flowering.
With proper siting, planting, and care red hot poker plants will thrive for years of visually striking color.
Troubleshooting Problems With Red Hot Pokers
Red hot poker plants are not prone to many issues, but watch for these potential problems:
-
Poor Flowering – Can result from too much shade or competition from tree roots. Ensure full sun exposure.
-
Leaf Spot – Small brown spots on foliage caused by fungal disease. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting leaves.
-
Aphids – Small sucking insects that congregate on buds and new growth. Knock off with strong spray of water.
-
Rot – Base rot from overly moist soil. Plant in well-draining spot, limit watering, and allow soil to dry between irrigations.
-
Leaf Scorch – Browning leaf tips indicating too little water. Deeply soak the entire root zone when top few inches of soil are dry.
With proper selection, planting, and care you can enjoy the fiery color and striking vertical form of red hot poker plants in your own garden. These exotic looking perennials provide hassle-free beauty when given full sun and good drainage.
How to plant and grow red hot poker | Kniphofia
FAQ
Do red hot poker plants come back every year?
When to plant red hot pokers?
Are red hot poker flowers invasive?
Do red hot pokers need to be cut back?
Are red hot pokers perennials?
Sizes & Prices Red hot pokers Kniphofiaare perennials prized for their tall, showstopping flower spikes in bright red, orange, yellow, and other colors. Perhaps the best feature of these plants is their long blooming period. They will brighten a garden for much of the summer.
Will red hot poker grow in my garden?
They will brighten a garden for much of the summer. Rest assured, when you buy Red Hot Poker for sale online from Wilson Bros Gardens, we safely ship the highest quality container-grown specimens that are ready upon arrival to plant and thrive for years to come in your gardens – Guaranteed!
What is a red hot poker Kniphofia?
The genus Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) is a group of South African native perennials that range from 10″ dwarfs to 7′ giants. We have spent quite a bit of time evaluating kniphofia species and cultivars for their garden performance and hope you enjoy our ever-expanding offerings.
Are hummingbirds attracted to red hot poker plants?
Hummingbirds and butterflies, like gardeners, are attracted to the colorful flower spikes of the red hot poker plant. Try pairing Kniphofia with Gaura, Panicum or Setcreasea. We think that you’ll like the combination of hot colors. As you might expect from a South African plant, Kniphofia is quite heat- and drought-tolerant.
