Kniphofia rooperi 'Poco Red Red Hot Poker'

Species

perennial

Poco Red Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia rooperi 'Poco Red Red Hot Poker'

The Story

Plant Bio

Kniphofia 'Poco Red' is a compact, reblooming Red Hot Poker with grass-like foliage and spikes of vibrant red, tubular flowers.

This dwarf cultivar is prized for its compact size and its ability to rebloom from early summer until fall, providing a long season of color.

Uses & Benefits:

The fiery red flower spikes add striking color to gardens and borders, attracting attention and enhancing landscape aesthetics.

Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, ideal for water-wise gardening.

Provides nectar for hummingbirds and pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesKniphofia rooperiRooper's Red Hot Poker

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

20 inches

Width

16 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South 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

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck rhizomes 4-6 inches deep into the soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
Mist cuttings if propagating via division to encourage rooting.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use a sandy or loamy soil mix for optimal drainage and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Apply a balanced fertilizer annually 🌱
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb the rhizomes during flowering
Never fertilize with high nitrogen in late summer
Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil

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

Vibrant border plant with fiery red flower spikesDramatic focal point in xeriscapesContainer plant for sunny patios

Companion Plants

Lavender Echinacea Sedum Agave Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Poco Red Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Poco Red Red Hot Poker grow in?

Poco Red 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 Poco Red Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Poco Red Red Hot Poker bloom?

Poco Red 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 Poco Red Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Poco Red Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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