1 named cultivar

‘Jenny Bloom’Jenny Bloom Red Hot Poker

perennial

Leafy Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia foliosa

The Story

Plant Bio

A hardy perennial known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers, often attracting hummingbirds and insects.

Distinctive elongated leaves and multistemmed flower spikes that are less common in other Kniphofia species.

Uses & Benefits:

Kniphofia foliosa provides striking, fiery flower spikes that add vibrant color and vertical interest to gardens, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.

Its drought tolerance makes it an excellent low-maintenance choice for water-wise landscapes.

Attracts hummingbirds and pollinating insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Ethiopia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck rhizomes 2-3 inches deep and space 12 inches apart.
Mist cuttings lightly until roots develop, about 6 weeks.
Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent soggy roots ❌
Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from neglecting pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, fiery border plantDramatic focal point in perennial bedsScented hedge along pathways

Companion Plants

Echinacea SedumLavender Gaillardia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Leafy Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Leafy Red Hot Poker grow in?

Leafy Red Hot Poker is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Leafy Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Leafy Red Hot Poker, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Leafy Red Hot Poker bloom?

Leafy 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 Leafy Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Leafy Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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