perennial

Border Ballet Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia uvaria 'Border Ballet'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A seed mix of compact Kniphofia uvaria, producing flower spikes in a range of vibrant colors from cream and yellow to orange and red. This cultivar is particularly noted for its shorter stature and profuse blooming, making it ideal for garden borders.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Kniphofia Border Ballet offers vibrant, eye-catching flower spikes that add bold color and vertical interest to gardens and landscapes.

Its drought-tolerant nature makes it a low-maintenance choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.

Provides nectar for hummingbirds and pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep and space 18 inches apart in spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Mist the foliage regularly during dry spells to maintain moisture.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate plants and promote growth.

Pro Tip

Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the growing season 🌱
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage more blooms 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer 🌱
Divide clumps every few years for vigorous growth 🌱

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in poorly-drained soil ❌
Refrain from cutting back in late fall ❌
Avoid fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, striking border plantDramatic focal point in garden bedsWildlife-friendly nectar source

Companion Plants

Gaura Echinacea Lavender Sedum Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Border Ballet Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Border Ballet Red Hot Poker grow in?

Border Ballet 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 Border Ballet Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Border Ballet Red Hot Poker bloom?

Border Ballet 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 Border Ballet Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Border Ballet Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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