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Description
Kniphofia Uvaria, commonly known as the Red Hot Poker, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. The plant is native to South Africa and is widely grown in gardens and landscapes in different parts of the world. It produces long, narrow leaves that grow up to 3 feet long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are dark green and are arranged in a basal rosette. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and produces a flower spike that is 2-4 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Kniphofia |
Appearance
The Red Hot Poker produces a flower spike that is cylindrical and dense. The flowers are tubular and are arranged on the spike in a dense cluster. The flowers are orange-red in color and are about 1 inch long. The plant blooms in mid-summer to early fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The foliage of the plant dies back in the winter and new growth appears in the spring.
Care Guide
Kniphofia Uvaria is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for taking care of the plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Red Hot Poker in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant the Red Hot Poker in full sun or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Red Hot Poker is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be attacked by spider mites, thrips, and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and spray it with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Kniphofia Uvaria is native to South Africa and grows in grasslands and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Red Hot Poker grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Red Hot Poker?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer and repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: When should I divide the Red Hot Poker?
A: Divide the plant in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can I grow the Red Hot Poker from seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in the spring in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until germination.
Related Plants
- Kniphofia Alcazar
- Kniphofia Bees’ Lemon
- Kniphofia Flamenco
- Kniphofia Mango Popsicle
References
- “Kniphofia Uvaria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d820. Accessed 28 July 2021.
- University of Illinois Extension, “Red Hot Poker,” University of Illinois Extension, extension.illinois.edu/perennials/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=677. Accessed 28 July 2021.
- “Growing Kniphofia,” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/advice/grow-your-own/herbs/kniphofia. Accessed 28 July 2021.
