Red-hot poker 'Candlelight' Kniphofia 'Candlelight'

Water

Red Hot Poker, also known as Kniphofia 'Candlelight', should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Provide approximately one to two gallons of water per plant during each watering session, depending on soil conditions and climate. During periods of drought or extreme heat, additional water may be necessary. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering frequency to prevent soggy soil.

Light

Red Hot Poker thrives in full sun conditions where it can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant is in an area with unobstructed exposure to the sun, as shade can impede its growth and flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but full sun is ideal for the healthiest plants and most vibrant blooms.

Temperature

Red Hot Poker prefers warm temperatures and does well in a range between 50°F and 90°F. Although it can survive short periods of colder temperatures down to approximately 20°F, it is not frost-hardy and should be protected from freezing conditions. The ideal temperature range for promoting growth and flowering is between 60°F and 75°F.

Pruning

Red Hot Poker should be pruned to remove spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage additional blooms and maintain plant appearance. Deadheading during the summer can promote a second round of flowering. In early spring or late fall, cut back the foliage to a few inches above ground level to tidy up the plant and prepare it for new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Red Hot Poker 'Candlelight' thrives in well-draining soil with a light loamy or sandy texture, enriched with organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. Preparing a mix of two parts garden soil, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure will create an optimal growing environment for this perennial.

Repotting

Red Hot Poker 'Candlelight' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is a garden perennial and prefers to be left undisturbed once established. Repotting is generally only necessary if you start with a container-grown plant, in which case it can be repotted once it outgrows its current pot, usually every 2-3 years.

Humidity & Misting

Red Hot Poker 'Candlelight' is adaptable to a range of humidity conditions but prefers a moderate level. It is not typically a concern for this plant when planted outdoors, as it can tolerate the varying humidity levels of temperate climates well without needing special attention.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, ensure pot has drainage.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from severe frost.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Red Hot Poker 'Candlelight' begins its life when its seeds are sown in well-drained soil, preferably in full sun. After germination, the seedlings grow, developing long, narrow leaves and establishing a strong root system. The plant then enters a vegetative stage where it produces clumps of strap-like foliage and becomes increasingly robust. In the flowering stage, usually in the second year, tall flower spikes emerge, bearing tubular flowers that transition from yellow to orange-red, resembling a torch. After pollination, typically by birds and bees, the flowers set seed, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant can then enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it may die back and regrow from the roots when conditions become favorable again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Kniphofia 'Candlelight', commonly known as Red Hot Poker or Torch Lily, is typically propagated by division. The best time to divide this perennial plant is in spring or early autumn. The most popular method involves carefully lifting the clump from the ground with a shovel and then using a sharp knife or spade to cut the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one or two growth points or shoots. The divisions should be replanted immediately at the same depth they were originally growing and watered well. Dividing the plant not only helps to propagate new plants but also rejuvenates the older clumps, encouraging more vigorous growth and flowering.