Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Kniphofia uvaria or Red hot poker

The genus Kniphofia, family Asphodelaceae, includes about 70 species of perennial herbaceous plants native to Africa and Madagascar. Some species are: Kniphofia uvaria, Kniphofia praecox, Kniphofia breviflora, Kniphofia coralina, Kniphofia caulescens, Kniphofia galpinii.

Common names: Red hot poker, Torch Lily, Poker Plant or Tritoma.

They are perennial herbaceous plants that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. The long leaves of an intense green color are linear and have a toothed area. It produces a floral scape 1 meter (3.28 feet) high with tubular flowers gathered on a cylindrical spike; They can be red, yellow or orange. They bloom in summer.

They are used in beds, borders and as cut flowers; They combine very well with plants of the Lupinus and Delphinium genera. They are ideal for large cities due to their resistance to atmospheric pollution.

The Kniphofia uvaria prefers full sun or light shade exposure, protected from the wind. They resist occasional low intensity frosts.

They grow best in deep, well-drained soil that retains moisture. Mix leaf mulch with peat moss and coarse sand. The transplant is done in spring or early summer.

Water frequently in summer and spring (never flood). In autumn and winter reduce watering.

Fertilize with mineral fertilizer every 3 weeks during the summer and with manure when they start to sprout.

Prune wilted flower stems.

They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases.

They are propagated from seed (difficult process) and by division in autumn or spring.

Images of the plant Kniphofia uvaria or Red hot poker