red-hot poker
Kniphofia brachystachya
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
7 - 9
Flowers:
Yellow and dark brown Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Red-hot pokers should be watered moderately, approximately every 5-7 days or as needed. Allow the soil to dry out in between waterings and avoid overwatering. If the plant is grown in a container, make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes and empty the saucer of any standing water after each watering. Red-hot pokers prefer some humidity, so provide occasional misting with room-temperature water to help keep the foliage vibrant and the plant healthy.
sunlight
Red-hot poker (Kniphofia brachystachya) is a drought-tolerant plant, so it should be placed in a location where it can receive lots of bright sunlight. Ideally, it should receive around 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, generally from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. The sun's intensity can vary with the season, so it is important to adjust the amount of sun the plant receives if needed. In summer, it may require slightly more shade. In winter, when the sun is less intense, a little extra sunlight may be beneficial.
pruning
Red-hot poker (Kniphofia brachystachya) is a relatively fast-growing perennial plant and will most likely need to be pruned at least once a year. Pruning for Red-hot poker should take place in the late winter or early spring, typically around February or March. It is best to only prune back the tops of the plant. This removes any dead flowering stalks from the previous year, allowing new, unfurling flower buds to emerge without competition. Avoid pruning below the dead flowering stalks, as this may damage younger growth. Remember to use sterile pruning shears to avoid the spread of disease.
