perennial

Solar Flare Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia uvaria 'Solar Flare'

$13.95

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust, clump-forming perennial with long, grass-like, evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves. In summer, it produces tall, leafless stems topped with dense, torch-like spikes of tubular flowers, typically opening red or orange and fading to yellow from the bottom up.

A distinctive cultivar prized for its exceptionally large flower spikes of brilliant, solid solar-yellow. It is a vigorous grower and a reliable rebloomer, producing flowers from summer into fall.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides bold, fiery color and vertical interest in borders.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance perennial that tolerates drought and poor soil.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, supporting local pollinators.
SpeciesKniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

28 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Prefers consistent moisture but is drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Can cause minor skin irritation or mild stomach upset if ingested.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$13.95
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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divide rhizomes in early spring for best results.
  2. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil for optimal growth.
  3. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote vigorous flowering.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Cut back flower stalks after blooming to encourage new growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells ☀️
  • Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate plants
  • Remove spent flower stalks for a tidy appearance

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don’t cut back in late fall to prevent frost damage
  • Refrain from fertilizing with high nitrogen fertilizers

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid, orange-flowered borderSculptural perennial accent

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Solar Flare Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Solar Flare Red Hot Poker grow in?

Solar Flare 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 Solar Flare Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Solar Flare Red Hot Poker bloom?

Solar Flare Red Hot Poker typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Solar Flare Red Hot Poker need full sun?

Solar Flare Red Hot Poker does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Solar Flare Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Solar Flare Red Hot Poker with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.