Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’ (Red Hot Poker)

Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’ is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a plant that offers both visual impact with its fiery-colored spikes and ease of care. Its adaptability to various environments and attraction to pollinators make it a valuable addition to any garden.

Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’: An In-depth Look

Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’, commonly known as the Torch Lily or Red Hot Poker, is a lovely dwarf Kniphofia, admired for its stunning, torch-like flower spikes that create a bold statement in the garden. This variety is particularly noted for its intense, glowing red-orange blooms.

Native: While the Kniphofia genus is native to Africa, ‘Fire Glow’ is a horticultural cultivar bred for specific garden characteristics, such as its vivid flower color and growth habit.

Plant Type and Habit: This herbaceous perennial exhibits a compact, clump-forming habit. It produces upright, cylindrical flower spikes that rise above a base of slender, grass-like foliage.

Size: The plant typically reaches about 16-24 inches in height (40-60 cm) and 14 inches in spread (35 cm).

Flowers: The flowers are the main attraction, featuring a brilliant red-orange hue. They are densely packed on the spikes, blooming from the bottom upwards. Blooming from late summer to frost, they provide a long-lasting display of color.

Foliage: Its foliage consists of long, narrow, green leaves that form a dense, grass-like clump at the base of the flower spikes.

Uses: Perfect for borders, cottage gardens, and as a standout feature in landscape designs. Its striking blooms make it popular for cut flower arrangements.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, tolerating a range of climates

Toxicity: There is no significant toxicity reported for humans or animals.

Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds.

Deer and Rabbit: It’s relatively resistant to deer and rabbits.

Drought: While it appreciates regular watering, it is moderately drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for various garden settings.

Invasiveness: Not considered invasive; maintains a manageable clump-forming growth habit.

Benefits: Adds vibrant color and vertical interest to gardens, attracts beneficial wildlife, and is relatively low-maintenance.

Red Hot Poker Growing Tips

Light: Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate light shade but may produce fewer flowers. Needs protection from strong winds.

Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerant of a range of soil types. Soil pH can be neutral to slightly acidic.

Water: Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Fertilizer: Feed them with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage strong growth and flowering.

Pruning: Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage more blooms. Cut back foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Propagation: Propagate by dividing clumps in spring or fall.

Mulching: Mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. However, be careful not to mulch too heavily around the plant’s crown, as this can lead to rot.

Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Watch for aphids, thrips, slugs, and snails. Root rot can be an issue in poorly drained soils.