PerennialsKniphofia uvaria
Red Hot Poker
Red Hot Poker is a spectacular perennial with torch-shaped flower clusters in fiery shades of red, orange and yellow. The blooms appear from June to September on sturdy stems above grass-like foliage. The plant is a magnet for hummingbirds, bees and butterflies.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 80–120 cm
- Spread
- 45–60 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–9
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- red, orange, yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, not too heavy soil. Avoid winter waterlogging — this is the greatest threat. Water sparingly in summer. In autumn, tie the leaves together to protect the crown from frost damage.
Pruning tips
Cut spent flower stems at the base. Only remove dead leaves in spring, as they protect the plant in winter. Divide large clumps in spring if the plant outgrows its space.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
PerennialsAgapanthus africanus
African Lily
The African Lily produces spectacular globe-shaped flower heads in blue or white on sturdy, tall stems above strap-like foliage. It blooms from June to August and lends a Mediterranean feel to any patio or container planting. In mild climates the plant is evergreen.