Species red-hot poker
tall spikes adorned with vibrant orange-creamy-white flowers on green stems

red-hot poker

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet'

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Border Ballet') is a perennial herbaceous plant with stunningly bright yellow, red, and orange flower spikes radiating from its peak. Native to the grasslands of South Africa, this species is drought and deer resistant, and easy to maintain. Its evergreen foliage only adds to the beauty of long lasting blooms, making it a great border accent or addition to formal gardens. It's happiest in a sunny location, and it will usually bloom in early summer. Red-hot poker is a great choice for a low-maintenance plant that adds a burst of colour to the landscape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Orange, red, pink, yellow and creamy pastels Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Border Ballet') requires moderate water, and should be watered once every week during the growing season and once every 2 weeks during the winter months. When watering, be sure to thoroughly soak the soil but avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot. During especially hot and dry periods, increase watering to every 5-7 days, being sure to check the soil moisture level before. In order to ensure the roots do not rot, a drainage hole must be provided in the container.

sunlight

Red-hot poker plants (Kniphofia 'Border Ballet') require a minimum of 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. For optimal growth, they should be planted in an area which receives full sun to partial shade, preferably in a spot in the garden that does not get too much shade. They should not be exposed to extreme heat or cold, as they can burn in direct sunlight or become too cold when shaded. The ideal temperature for these plants is from 65F to 70F (18C to 21C). In colder climates, it's important to provide some winter protection for the plants, such as mulching or wrapping them. In hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade may help them better tolerate the warming temperatures.

pruning

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Border Ballet') should be pruned in early spring, before new growth begins in the late spring. Pruning should be fairly light, removing old flower stalks and faded foliage down to the crown. This helps ensure the vigor of the plant and keeps the new foliage coming in looking fresh and healthy. If a plant is becoming too large for its space, it can be cut down by a third or more, and any shoots which appear at the base can be removed.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map