Red Hot Poker Kniphofia 'Nobilis'

Water

Red Hot Poker plants, like Kniphofia 'Nobilis', should be watered regularly during their growing season, with a deep watering once a week. If rainfall is scarce, you may need to water more frequently to maintain moist soil, especially in hot, dry climates. During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering significantly and only water if the soil becomes very dry. Aim to provide about 1 gallon of water per week for each plant during the active growing season, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and temperature conditions.

Light

The Red Hot Poker plant thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An optimal spot would be an open garden area that is free from shade from trees or buildings to ensure the plant receives ample sunlight throughout the day. The more sun the plant gets, the better it will bloom, so a south-facing location is ideal in the Northern Hemisphere.

Temperature

The Red Hot Poker plant can survive in a wide range of temperatures but performs best when the temperature is between 50°F and 75°F. It is capable of withstanding temperatures down to about 14°F but should be protected from prolonged freezing to prevent root damage. During extreme heat above 90°F, it is important to provide adequate watering to keep the plants healthy.

Pruning

Pruning Red Hot Poker plants is mainly done to remove spent flower stalks and enhance the plant's appearance. Deadheading, or cutting off the old flower spikes after blooming, encourages more blooms and prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production. Pruning should be done in late summer or fall, after flowering is complete. Additionally, in early spring, remove any dead or damaged foliage to tidy up the plant and make way for new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Red Hot Poker thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining and fertile, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. A mix of loam, compost, and coarse sand or perlite can provide the ideal structure and nutrients.

Repotting

Red Hot Pokers are typically low-maintenance and do not need frequent repotting. They should be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when the clump becomes too crowded.

Humidity & Misting

Red Hot Poker plants are quite tolerant of varying humidity levels and do well in average outdoor humidity conditions; they do not require high humidity to thrive.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from winter wet.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Kniphofia 'Nobilis', commonly known as the Red Hot Poker or Torch Lily, starts its life cycle when seeds are sown in well-drained soil, usually in late winter or early spring, which then germinate within a few weeks. Young seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of narrow, strap-like leaves, and over time, the plant forms a sturdy clump. As the plant matures, usually in the second year, it produces tall, rigid flowering spikes in the summer that showcase tubular, red to orange flowers which attract hummingbirds and beneficial insects. After blooming, the flowers fade and seed capsules may form, containing seeds that can be collected for propagation. The plant will undergo a period of dormancy in the fall or winter, with the foliage dying back, especially in cooler climates. The cycle recommences with the return of the growing season as new growth appears from the plant's perennial crown in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating Kniphofia 'Nobilis', commonly known as Red Hot Poker, is by division. The best time to divide is in the spring when new growth begins. Carefully lift the clump from the ground with a garden fork, taking care not to damage the roots excessively. Using a sharp knife or spade, split the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point or fan of leaves. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth, and water thoroughly to help establish them. This method not only helps propagate new plants but also invigorates older clumps that may have become too large or less floriferous over time.