Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

3 other cultivars

perennial

Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia x hybrida 'Orange Blaze'

The Story

Plant Bio

Kniphofia x hybrida, commonly known as torch lily, is a perennial with upright, grassy foliage and striking, spike-like flower heads that display vibrant orange hues, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.

The 'Orange Blaze' cultivar is distinguished by its intensely bright orange flowers that create a fiery display, and it has a vigorous growth habit with excellent drought tolerance.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking flower spikes add vertical interest and vibrant color to gardens.

Drought tolerant, reducing water needs, and low maintenance make it ideal for sustainable landscapes.

Attracts hummingbirds and pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

27 inches

Width

21 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

May cause mild stomach upset if ingested

Bloom period

Summer – Early fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divide clumps in early spring for best growth.
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote flowering.
Stake tall flower spikes if necessary to prevent toppling.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and encourage healthy blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season
Refrain from disturbing roots during peak 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

Vivid border plantBold focal point in garden bedsDrought-tolerant accent plant

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Coreopsis Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker questions

What zones can Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker grow in?

Orange Blaze 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 Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker bloom?

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

Does Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker need full sun?

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

Is Orange Blaze Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?

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