Species

Kniphofia northiaeNorth's Red Hot Poker

1 other cultivar

‘Timothy’Timothy Red Hot Poker

perennial RHS Award

Tawny King Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia northiae 'Tawny King'

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust perennial known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers.

Features tall spikes of tawny-orange and apricot flowers above bold, broad, blue-green, yucca-like foliage. A vigorous and long-blooming cultivar.

Uses & Benefits:

Kniphofia northiae Tawny King provides vibrant, fiery blooms that add striking color and vertical interest to gardens and landscapes.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.

Attracts hummingbirds and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesKniphofia northiaeNorth's Red Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low; drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average to low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in spring with the crown just above soil level.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil and encourage growth.
Mist cuttings in a humid environment for 4-6 weeks to root.
Fertilize monthly during active growth with a balanced fertilizer.
Remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for best flowering; ensure soil is well-draining to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Prune dead leaves to maintain tidy appearance
Fertilize in early spring for vigorous blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from cutting back in late fall—wait until early spring
Don’t ignore pest signs or disease symptoms

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, fiery-colored border plantStriking accent in perennial bedsScree or rock garden feature

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Sedum spp.Lavandula angustifolia Rudbeckia hirta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tawny King Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Tawny King Red Hot Poker grow in?

Tawny King Red Hot Poker is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tawny King Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

Yes — Tawny King Red Hot Poker is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tawny King Red Hot Poker bloom?

Tawny King Red Hot Poker typically blooms in mid-summer to early fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tawny King Red Hot Poker need full sun?

Tawny King Red Hot Poker does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Tawny King Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tawny King Red Hot Poker handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.