Species

Kniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

14 other cultivars

perennial

Candlelight Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia uvaria 'Candlelight'

The Story

Plant Bio

Kniphofia uvaria 'Candlelight' is a perennial plant distinguished by its upright, grass-like foliage and striking, torch-like flower spikes of soft, buttery yellow, attracting pollinators throughout the summer.

This cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant, candle-like flower display that provides a warm, luminous effect in garden borders and attracts hummingbirds and bees.

Uses & Benefits:

The striking orange flower spikes add vibrant color to summer gardens, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.

Provides seasonal visual interest and can serve as a natural barrier or focal point.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects, promoting garden biodiversity.

SpeciesKniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium; drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Low toxicity; may cause stomach upset if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny garden spot with well-drained soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into soil, 1 inch deep, in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote more blooms
Apply mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots during peak bloom
Skip heavy fertilization in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border with tall orange spikesWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender Sedum Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Candlelight Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Candlelight Red Hot Poker grow in?

Candlelight Red Hot Poker is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Candlelight Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Candlelight Red Hot Poker bloom?

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

Does Candlelight Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Candlelight Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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