Kniphofia ‘Hot and Cold’ (Red Hot Poker)

Kniphofia ‘Hot and Cold’ is a stunning garden plant, appreciated for its striking flowers and ability to attract wildlife. Its ease of care and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama and color to their outdoor spaces.

Kniphofia ‘Hot and Cold’: An In-depth Look

Kniphofia ‘Hot and Cold’ is a captivating cultivar of the Red Hot Poker plant, known for its unique flowers and garden appeal. It stands out with its bold, bi-colored flower spikes. The plant forms a clump of slender, grass-like foliage with tall, upright flower stems.

Native: While Kniphofia itself is native to Africa, ‘Hot and Cold’ is a cultivated variety, bred for specific garden characteristics.

Plant Type and Habit: This perennial herbaceous plant has a clumping growth habit. It’s known for its vertical flower spikes that rise above the foliage.

Size: The plant can reach about 30-36 inches in height (75-90 cm) and 24-30 inches in spread (60-75 cm).

Flowers: Its flowers are the main attraction, with spikes featuring a striking combination of colors, often starting with a creamy white at the base and transitioning to a vibrant tangerine orange at the top. The blooming period is in summer, providing a colorful display during these warmer months. Produces small, capsule-like fruits, but these are not significant in comparison to the flowers.

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

Uses: Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and as a focal point in landscape designs. Also used in cut flower arrangements.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, 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: Moderately drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells.

Invasiveness: Not considered invasive; it’s well-behaved in the garden setting.

Benefits: Offers vibrant color, vertical interest, and is relatively low-maintenance. Attracts beneficial pollinators.

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.