Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria
Also listed as Aletris uvaria, Aloe longifolia
Also known as Bishop's Torch, Torch Lily, Torchflower
Climate Match for your location
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A striking South African perennial with distinctive tubular flowers in hot colors—typically red, orange, and yellow—arranged in dense spikes. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, making it excellent for xeriscape and pollinator gardens.
Why grow it
Red Hot Poker offers reliable, long-season color (summer through fall) with minimal irrigation once established, making it a practical alternative to thirsty perennials in water-limited regions. Unlike many ornamental spikes that require deadheading or division to maintain vigor, Kniphofia uvaria sustains flowering with basic seasonal cutback. Its tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators effectively, adding functional value to mixed borders.
Watch out for
Plant in well-draining soil or raised beds, as winter moisture and poor drainage are the primary causes of decline in temperate climates. Flowering may be delayed or sparse if plants are overcrowded or receive insufficient sunlight (less than six hours daily). Young plants benefit from consistent water during establishment, despite the species' eventual drought tolerance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
Native Range
South Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
Little Maid is a dwarf white-and-yellow cultivar reaching 1–2 feet, ideal for smaller spaces; Flamenco produces a striking mix of colors from a single sowing and is popular for ornamental variety.
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A striking South African perennial with distinctive tubular flowers in hot colors—typically red, orange, and yellow—arranged in dense spikes. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, making it excellent for xeriscape and pollinator gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Red Hot Poker grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Red Hot Poker offers reliable, long-season color (summer through fall) with minimal irrigation once established, making it a practical alternative to thirsty perennials in water-limited regions. Unlike many ornamental spikes that require deadheading or division to maintain vigor, Kniphofia uvaria sustains flowering with basic seasonal cutback. Its tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators effectively, adding functional value to mixed borders.
Watch out for
Plant in well-draining soil or raised beds, as winter moisture and poor drainage are the primary causes of decline in temperate climates. Flowering may be delayed or sparse if plants are overcrowded or receive insufficient sunlight (less than six hours daily). Young plants benefit from consistent water during establishment, despite the species' eventual drought tolerance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
Native Range
South Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar herbs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
Little Maid is a dwarf white-and-yellow cultivar reaching 1–2 feet, ideal for smaller spaces; Flamenco produces a striking mix of colors from a single sowing and is popular for ornamental variety.