Red Hot Poker Kniphofia 'Innocence'
ABOUT
Kniphofia 'Innocence', also known as Red Hot Poker or Torch Lily, is a striking perennial that features a distinctive inflorescence. This plant showcases flower spikes that rise above the foliage, starting with creamy white buds that evolve into delicate white blooms. The flowers are tubular and densely packed into elongated clusters at the top of upright stems, creating a visual effect reminiscent of a flaming torch. The blooms transition from the creamy shade to a crisp, luminous white, giving them an ethereal, soft appearance. The foliage of the Red Hot Poker consists of long, narrow, and arching leaves that are grass-like in texture, forming a clump at the base. The leaves are rich green in color, providing a perfect backdrop for the glowing flower spikes. The flowers are not only visually appealing but are also known to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators, adding to the plant's garden interest. While not detailing its dimensions, Kniphofia 'Innocence' is a plant with a bold presence and is prized in gardens for its distinctive color and form, which create an eye-catching display in perennial borders, as accent plants, or in mass plantings. Overall, it is an attractive and unique addition to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asphodelaceae
Synonyms
Red Hot Poker, Torch Lily, Tritoma
Common names
Kniphofia 'Innocence'.
ToxicityTo humans
Red hot poker, the common name of Kniphofia 'Innocence', is not typically considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread documentation of poisoning from this plant when touched or ingested. However, as with many plants, individual reactions can vary, and some people might experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction upon handling or ingesting parts of the plant. It is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants not known to be safe for consumption.
To pets
Red hot poker, the common name of Kniphofia 'Innocence', is also not widely recognized as being toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Like with humans, this plant is not commonly associated with poisoning in animals. Nevertheless, pets sometimes have different sensitivities, and consumption of non-food plants could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some pets. It is prudent to discourage pets from chewing on or ingesting parts of this plant to avoid any potential discomfort or health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet 6 inches (1.07 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Kniphofia 'Innocence', commonly known as Red Hot Poker, draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden, which can aid in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, this variety of Red Hot Poker is resistant to periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
- Low Maintenance: It does not require frequent watering, pruning, or fertilizing, making it ideal for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance option.
- Architectural Interest: The vertical flower spikes of Red Hot Poker add height and structure to garden beds, contributing to the aesthetic design of a landscape.
- Long Blooming: Kniphofia 'Innocence' has a lengthy blooming season, providing garden color and interest for an extended period during the summer.
- Deer Resistant: This plant is not a preferred choice for deer; as such, it's less likely to be damaged by deer grazing in areas where this can be a problem.
- Versatile Planting: It can be used in perennial borders, as an accent plant, or in mass plantings for a dramatic effect in the landscape.
- Seasonal Interest: The foliage of Red Hot Poker remains attractive throughout the growing season, extending the visual appeal of the plant even when it's not in bloom.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The striking blossoms of Red Hot Poker can inspire artists and can be used as a subject in various forms of art including painting, photography, and textile designs.
- Educational Tool: Botany teachers can use Red Hot Poker to demonstrate plant structure and pollination techniques to students, as its unique floral spikes are perfect examples for such lessons.
- Culinary Garnish: The bright flowers of Red Hot Poker can be used to adorn dishes and add an exotic touch, although they are not commonly eaten.
- Biological Control: Planting Red Hot Poker may attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests, fostering a natural method of pest control in your garden.
- Seasonal Decorations: Red Hot Poker flowers can be used in dried floral arrangements and wreaths, especially suited for vibrant summer and fall displays.
- Theme Gardens: Red Hot Poker can be a focal point in fire-themed or tropical-themed gardens thanks to its vivid colors and flame-like appearance.
- Companion Planting: Red Hot Poker acts as an excellent companion plant in gardens, deterring deer and rodents that prefer not to eat them, thereby potentially protecting more delicate plants.
- Habitat Creation: Red Hot Poker plants provide nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity and supporting habitat creation in gardens.
- Soil Erosion Control: With its clumping growth habit, Red Hot Poker can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas prone to heavy rain.
- Crafting Material: The fibrous leaves and stems of Red Hot Poker can be used to create natural craft items, such as woven baskets or eco-friendly decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Hot Poker is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Hot Poker is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attention-Grabbing Presence: The striking appearance of the Red Hot Poker, with its tall fiery blooms, symbolizes the ability to stand out and capture attention in any setting.
- Strength and Endurance: Known for its robust nature and ability to withstand tough conditions, the Red Hot Poker represents strength, resilience, and the capacity to endure challenging environments.
- Boldness and Courage: The vivid colors and bold look of the flower signify a sense of courage and the willingness to take risks or make a statement.
- Passion and Vibrancy: The intense hues of the Red Hot Poker blooms are often associated with passion, energy, and a vibrant spirit, reflecting a lust for life.
- Exotic Beauty: With its exotic look and origin, the Red Hot Poker epitomizes unique beauty and the allure of the unfamiliar or the exotic.
WaterRed hot poker plants such as Kniphofia 'Innocence' prefer consistently moist soil, especially during the summer when they are in bloom. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot of soil. During periods of extended heat or drought, it may be necessary to water more frequently to maintain moisture levels. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant, but do not let the soil become bone dry.
LightFor best growth, Red hot poker plants need full sun, meaning they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant Kniphofia 'Innocence' in a location where it will have unobstructed access to sunlight, such as an open garden bed or a southern exposure if you're in the Northern Hemisphere. Avoid planting in full shade, as this can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureRed hot poker plants are quite resilient and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefer conditions between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit but will benefit from protective mulching in winter. Ideal temperatures for Kniphofia ‘Innocence’ during active growth are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Red hot poker plants to remove old, faded flower spikes and encourage additional blooming. Deadheading can be done throughout the blooming season as needed. In late fall or early spring, cut back the foliage to about 3 inches from the ground to tidy the plant and prepare it for new growth. This is typically done once a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRed Hot Poker 'Innocence' thrives in well-draining, loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingRed Hot Poker 'Innocence' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, typically in the spring.
Humidity & MistingRed Hot Poker 'Innocence' prefers average humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions and does not require any special humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright direct light and keep soil moderately dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil; water when topsoil is dry.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleKniphofia 'Innocence', commonly known as Torch Lily or Red Hot Poker, typically begins its life cycle from seed, although garden specimens are often propagated by division. Seeds, if sown, will germinate in warm soil conditions, and seedlings will establish a rosette of narrow, grass-like leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a deep and robust root system, which helps it to survive in drought conditions. In late spring to summer, Torch Lily sends up tall flowering spikes that bear tubular, cream to white flowers that fade to green as they age, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. After blooming, the flowers will set seed, completing the reproductive cycle, while the foliage remains evergreen in milder climates or dies back in colder areas to re-emerge in spring. Torch Lily can live for several years, forming larger clumps that can be divided every few years to rejuvenate the plant and produce new growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: The Kniphofia 'Innocence', commonly known as Red Hot Poker or Torch Lily, is best propagated by division. The optimal time for this is in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant with a shovel, ensuring a generous amount of root and soil around the clump. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the root mass into sections, each with at least one healthy growth point or fan of leaves. Replant the divisions promptly, maintaining the same soil depth as the original plant, and water them thoroughly. This method promotes rapid establishment and minimizes stress to the plant, encouraging a swift return to vigorous growth. Each division should ideally be spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth.
