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

red-hot poker

Kniphofia hirsuta 'Fire Dance'

The red-hot poker is a robust evergreen perennial. Growing up to 1.2m in height and spreading up to 0.8m, its slender foliage is topped with conical spires of scarlet flowers, giving it its striking, eye-catching appearance. 'Fire Dance' is an aptly-named cultivar, and its long-lasting blooms dance in the sunlight from late spring to autumn. Requiring full to partial sun and well-draining acidic or alkaline soil, this hardy plant makes a wonderful addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Orange and yellow bicolor Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Red-hot poker plants prefer well-drained soils and regular watering. Water when the soil is almost dry and only enough to moisten the soil; make sure not to overwater. Depending on the size of the plant, water 1 to 2 times per week during the hot summer months and every other week in spring and fall. Reduce watering in winter. Check the soil with your finger to make sure it’s not too dry before watering.

sunlight

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia hirsuta'Fire Dance') should receive full sun throughout the day for optimal growth. This species of perennial flowers best when exposed to at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. However, in extremely hot climates with intense sunlight, Red-hot Poker may benefit from a few hours of afternoon shade. When provided proper sunlight and irrigation, Red-hot Poker will bloom from mid summer to fall.

pruning

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia hirsuta 'Fire Dance') plants should be pruned once a year, usually in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. The time for pruning can vary slightly depending on the climate and local environment. Start by removing any dead or dying leaves and stems, as well as any diseased or damaged areas. If your red-hot poker is looking overly large and unruly, you can also lightly prune the top growth by about 1-third. Doing this will help maintain the shape and size of the plant and will also encourage fuller growth. Make sure you have the proper tools on hand when pruning to reduce the risk of damaging the plant. Avoid pruning red-hot poker plants too aggressively as it can harm the health of the plant.

Season

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

Kniphofia hirsuta 'Fire Dance' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Kniphofia hirsuta 'Fire Dance' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map