Kniphofia is a genus of about 70 species of flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, native to Africa and Middle East.
Kniphofias have large, narrow, grass-like leaves and dense spikes of small, tubular flowers that bloom from early spring to autumn. When in bloom, the flowers produce an abundance of nectar, which attracts bees and butterflies. They are great garden plants, but can also be grown in pots and containers.
Drought and heat tolerant Red Hot Poker plants are easy to grow. They will do well in mid summer's heat, when other plants have wilted. They are great for arid, and semi-arid areas. You may know Red Hot Poker by another name. It is also called Torch Lily and Poker Plant. They are native to South Africa. Kniphofia / n ɪ p ˈ h oʊ f i ə /, also called tritoma, red hot poker, torch lily, or poker plant, is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, first described as a genus in 1794. Red Hot Poker 'Nobilis', Poker Plant 'Nobilis', Torch Lily 'Nobilis', Tritoma 'Nobilis', Kniphofia Uvaria 'Nobilis' Kniphofia Uvaria var. Nobilis Previous Next Tall and vigorous, Kniphofia 'Nobilis' is a late-flowering perennial with long spikes of glowing orange-red, tubular flowers, gradually fading to yellow in late summer to early fall. Laughter is the Best Medicine! Marilyn Jul 4, 2013 10:04 PM CST. I always cut the stems/stalks of the my faded flowers on the Red Hot Pokers. I think it's a good idea. How to Grow Red Hot Poker Plants: Red Hot Poker plants are very easy to grow. The like full sun. They prefer loose, rich soil that drains well. It is important to avoid wet soils, as the crowns can rot. Mix in compost when planting, if your soil is not rich. Add a general purpose fertilizer when planting them, then once a month after that.
Name meaning:
The genus was named in honor of Johannes Hieronymus Kniphof (1704.-1763.), a German botanist and physician.
The common name “Red Hot Pokers” refers to the red color and formation of the flowers.
Kniphofia symbolism:
Kniphofia is a symbol of good fortune.
Interesting facts about Kniphofia:
Benefits and Uses
Kniphofias are used in folk medicine.
Kniphofia laxiflora and Kniphofia rooperi is used as a medicine to treat the symptoms of certain chest disorders. Kniphofia foliosa is used for the treatment of abdominal cramps, while Kniphofia parviflora is used as snake repellent.
Several species, such as Kniphofia uvaria and Kniphofia foliosa, are planted as ornamentals.
Plant Type:
Red Hot Poker Bulb
Perennials
Red Hot Poker Medicine Ball
Color:
Kniphofia blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow and cream. They change color as the flower matures, which results in a bicolor look.