Species red-hot poker Guide
striking upright spikes of tubular vibrant red-orange flowers resembling fiery popsicles

red-hot poker

Kniphofia 'Cobra'

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 8

Flowers:

Tangerine fading to cream Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Cobra') should be watered as often as possible, especially during its growth period in the spring and summer. Aim to water the plant once or twice a week, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. In more extreme weather conditions where temperatures are very high or low, you may need to water the plant once or twice a day. During the colder months, you should allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely for long periods of time as this can impair the health and growth of the plant. As a general rule, a deep soak once a week should suffice.

sunlight

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Cobra') thrives in full sun for maximum growth and blooms. When growing this plant species, it is best to plan for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. For optimal performance, red-hot poker should be planted in a sunny spot that receives full sun without any shadow from nearby buildings or trees. The plant will still survive in light shade, but will not reach its full potential. If grown in full shade, the stems will be leggy and flower production will be greatly reduced.

pruning

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Cobra') should be pruned regularly, ideally in late spring after the flowering season has ended. Depending on the size of the plant, you may want to prune back only a portion of the stems each time in order to keep some of the foliage from the previous season. Remove any damaged or dead stems down to the base of the plant; remove any thin or weak stems as well to promote a healthy and attractive plant. Pruning back the bulky center clump of stems to no shorter than 2 thirds of their original size can also help to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and weakly supported. Again, depending on the size of the plant, you may want to trim off only the tips of the stems every 2-3 years in order to promote an attractive compact growth habit.