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

red hot poker

Kniphofia 'Elvira'

Red Hot Poker 'Elvira' is an unforgettable plant with its dazzling blooms. Bright red and orange flowers bloom on tall spikes from late spring to early fall, adding an explosion of color to any garden. The clusters of tubular flowers are long-lasting and will attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden. 'Elvira' is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate drought and loves the sun. It will thrive in any garden as long as the soil is well-draining. Red Hot Poker 'Elvira' is the perfect choice for planting in beds, borders, and containers.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Orange Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

Red hot poker (Kniphofia 'Elvira') should be watered regularly during its active growing season. In general, it's best to water the plant deeply and thoroughly once or twice a week. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings. During especially hot temperatures and/or the flowering season, water more often to prevent the soil from drying out. Make sure to always check the soil first and only water if the soil is dry to the touch. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, water sparingly (approximately 1 to 2 times a month).

sunlight

Red hot poker (Kniphofia 'Elvira') prefers a sunny position in the garden with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideal areas would be a sheltered south or west facing spot where the plant will receive as much sun as possible during the morning or afternoon. Although they can cope with some partial shade, they won't flower as profusely and won't reach their full potential. Full sun will ensure the best flowering and best display of the vibrant colours in the flower spike. However, when grown in exceptionally hot climates, light afternoon shade is beneficial.

pruning

Red hot poker (Kniphofia 'Elvira') should be pruned annually after blooming in the late spring or early summer. Pruning should include deadheading spent flowers, removing dead or dying leaves, and trimming back foliage. This will help promote overall plant health and encourage vigorous growth and flowering for the following season. For plants growing in hotter climates, pruning can be done up to twice per year depending on the desired shape and size of the plant. Before pruning, make sure to wear gloves since the plant's sap can cause mild skin irritation.

Season

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

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

Starts Flowering

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

Hardiness Map