perennial

Red Hot Poker

The Story

Plant Bio

Kniphofia sarmentosa is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its upright, grass-like foliage and striking, torch-like flower spikes that display vibrant red and orange hues during the summer and autumn months.

This species is notable for its dense, clumping growth habit and its ability to attract hummingbirds and pollinators with its bold, tubular flowers, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, tubular flowers add vibrant color and attract hummingbirds, creating a lively garden focal point.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports pollinators and hummingbirds, enhancing local biodiversity.

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

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil
Water regularly during first growing season
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Stake tall varieties for support
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage rebloom
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide clumps every 3-4 years
Plant in full sun for best blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers
Don’t disturb roots during flowering
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
Don’t prune in late fall

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

Vivid flower borderDrought-tolerant garden edgeWildlife-friendly planting

Companion Plants

Lavender Echinacea Sedum GaillardiaRussian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Red Hot Poker grow in?

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 Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Red Hot Poker bloom?

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

Does Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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