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Description
Kniphofia Caulescens, commonly known as Winter Red Hot Poker, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. The plant produces tall spikes of tubular red flowers that appear in late fall and continue blooming through winter. The leaves are long and narrow, with a light green hue that turns to bronze in colder temperatures. The flowers are pollinated by birds and bees, making the plant a great addition to any pollinator-friendly garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Kniphofia |
Appearance
The Kniphofia Caulescens plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are long and narrow, reaching up to 3 feet in length and 1 inch in width. They are arranged in a basal rosette and have a light green color that turns to bronze in cold temperatures. The flowers are arranged in tall spikes that can reach up to 5 feet in height. They are tubular and red-orange in color, with a yellow tip. The plant blooms in late fall and winter, making it a great addition to any winter garden.
Care Guide
Kniphofia Caulescens is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If the soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kniphofia Caulescens is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Kniphofia Caulescens is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kniphofia Caulescens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I water Kniphofia Caulescens?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Does Kniphofia Caulescens attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces tubular red flowers that are pollinated by birds and bees, making it a great addition to any pollinator-friendly garden.
Q: How tall does Kniphofia Caulescens grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Kniphofia Uvaria
- Kniphofia Pinnata
- Kniphofia Rooperi
- Kniphofia Alcazar
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/red-hot-poker/growing-red-hot-torch-lilies.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/kniphofia-caulescens
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/kniphofia-caulescens-winter-red-hot-poker/
