Species

Kniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

14 other cultivars

perennial

Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia uvaria 'Percy'

The Story

Plant Bio

Kniphofia uvaria, commonly known as red hot poker or torch lily, is a clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with grass-like, linear leaves and distinctive, dense, terminal spikes of tubular, drooping flowers.

The cultivar 'Percy's Pride' is noted for its robust, tall flower spikes that open from lime-green buds to creamy-white or pale yellow flowers, reblooming through the summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Kniphofia Percy provides striking vertical accents with fiery flower spikes, attracting hummingbirds and adding vibrant color to garden borders.

Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.

Attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and bees, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesKniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer for optimal growth.
Prune dead flower stalks after blooming to encourage new growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Prune dead flower stalks after blooming

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
Don’t cut back foliage in late fall—wait until early spring

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‑flowered borderSplash of color in perennial bedsDramatic focal point in cottage gardens

Companion Plants

Echinacea SedumLavender Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker grow in?

Percy's Pride 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 Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker bloom?

Percy's Pride 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 Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Percy's Pride Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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