Species

Kniphofia foliosaLeafy Red Hot Poker

perennial

Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia foliosa 'Jenny Bloom'

The Story

Plant Bio

Brightly colored, tubular flowers on tall spikes

Resistant to drought and attracts pollinators

Uses & Benefits:

Kniphofia foliosa Jenny Bloom provides vibrant orange flower spikes that add striking vertical interest to gardens, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.

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

Supports local pollinator populations, including bees and hummingbirds.

SpeciesKniphofia foliosaLeafy Red Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

May cause mild stomach upset if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during growing season.
Mist cuttings in a humid environment to encourage root development.
Divide mature clumps in early spring or late fall to promote healthy growth.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, especially in winter.
Transplant in early spring after the danger of frost has passed for best establishment.

Pro Tip

Use a mix of sandy and loamy soil to enhance drainage and root growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote vibrant blooms
Mulch annually to maintain soil moisture and temperature
Prune dead or damaged leaves to keep plant healthy

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't disturb roots during flowering season
Refrain from using high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over flowers
Don't neglect winter protection in colder zones

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, striking flower spikes for garden bordersVibrant focal point in perennial bedsScented, ornamental accent in cottage gardens

Companion Plants

Echinacea Lavandula Sedum Rudbeckia Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker grow in?

Jenny Bloom 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 Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker bloom?

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

Does Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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