Species red-hot poker
tall spike of fiery red-yellow flowers rise above clumps of green foliage

red-hot poker

Kniphofia 'Royal Standard'

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Royal Standard') is an eye-catching perennial that blooms in late spring and early summer. The upright bloom stalks rise from a clump of grass-like foliage. Each stalk is topped with a dramatic bouquet of tubular, downward facing blooms. As the blooms open, they transform from creamy white to a bright orange-red. The Red-hot Poker features a long bloom-time that can last up to 6 weeks and is a great choice for adding a tropical feel to the garden. Provide plenty of direct sunlight for the best performance of this drought-tolerant plant.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Top flowers red; lower flowers yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,tan

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water red-hot poker plants regularly during their active growing season. Water when the top inch of soil is dry and provide deep, thorough soakings. During hot, dry times, water the plants 2-3 times a week if no rain occurs. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Once mature, established plants can tolerate inconsistent watering. During winter months, once every other month is typically enough in mild climates.

sunlight

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Royal Standard') is a popular plant species that thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas with plentiful sunshine, this plant can handle all day sun. During hotter months, providing some afternoon shade may be beneficial. For best growth, make sure the sun is not blocked by tall trees or buildings. If this is not possible, consider providing light shade from overhead or lattice structures. It is important to note that in areas with semi-arid climates, this plant may need extra water in periods of prolonged dry heat.

pruning

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia 'Royal Standard') should be pruned in early spring, just as new growth appears. Remove any dead leaves or stems, and any old flower stalks left over from the previous year. Prune back flower stalks that have bloomed down to where they join with a stem. It is best to remove no more than about 1-third of the plant's foliage when pruning. After pruning, fertilize your red-hot poker with a slow-release fertilizer to help encourage new, productive growth.

Season

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

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

Starts Flowering

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

Hardiness Map