Kniphofia hirsuta ‘Fire Dance’ (Red Hot Poker)

Ideal for smaller spaces, Kniphofia hirsuta ‘Fire Dance’ (Red Hot Poker) is a clump-forming perennial boasting spikes of tubular, coral red and yellow flowers from early to late summer. Blooming in succession, the flower spikes are borne on stout flowering scapes which rise above a low-growing, thick clump of narrow, arching, blue-green foliage. Great for perennial borders or containers. Hardy to either zone 5b or 6, if you provide protection. Evergreen in mild winter areas.

• Grows up to 20 in. tall and wide (50 cm). This Red Hot Poker enjoys a sturdy stem. However, some protection from strong winds would be recommended.
• This rhizomatous perennial performs best in full sun, in a sandy soil that has been enriched with humus. However, any deep, moist but well-drained soil will do. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering will be reduced. Good drainage is essential to prevent crown rot.
• Drought, deer and rabbit tolerant, Kniphofias attract butterflies and are a favorite of hummingbirds.
• Virtually disease free
• Kniphofias provide interesting vertical accents in the garden, among other summer-blooming perennials. They look at their best with Achillea (yarrows), Helenium Autumnale (sneezeweed), Hemerocallis (daylilies), and Rudbeckia (coneflowers).
• While primarily used in perennial borders, Red Hot Pokers are also well suited to naturalistic settings, water edges or exotic style combinations. Plant them in front of an evergreen background, or as a stand-alone specimen – and be sure they will draw the attention of all onlookers. Never plant your Red Hot Pokers with their crown deeper than 3 in. (7 cm).
• Remove spent flower spikes to encourage more blooms.
• The foliage tends to suffer in the winter months. You may want to tie foliage together in the fall to prevent water entering the crown of the plant. Alternatively, you may cut the foliage off at the base in late fall.
• Should be planted in the spring or in the fall.
• Propagate by division of established clumps in late spring.