Kniphofia ‘Papaya Popsicle’ (Red Hot Poker)

Noted for its dwarf habit, Kniphofia ‘Papaya Popsicle’ is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial boasting spikes of tubular red and yellow flowers, creating a ravishing two-tone effect. Blooming in succession from early summer to early fall, the flower spikes are borne on stout flowering scapes which rise above a neat tufted clump of narrow grass-like bright green leaves. Great for small gardens or in a container.

• Grows up to 12-20 in. tall (30-50 cm) and 18 in. wide (45 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 and protect their crowns in winter in hardiness zone 6.
• The foliage tends to suffer in the winter months. You may want to tie foliage together in the fall to prevent water from 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.