Red hot poker (Kniphofia angustifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Red hot poker on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asphodelaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Red hot poker
Kniphofia angustifolia, also known as icacane or red hot poker, is a striking perennial native to South Africa, renowned for its torch-like flower spikes. It produces tubular blooms in warm colors, typically orange, red, or yellow, emerging from dense, rush-like foliage. This plant is perfect for adding an exotic and vertical accent to garden borders, rockeries, or as a focal point in flower beds.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun for abundant flowering and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gravelly, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Once established, watering should be moderate, as it tolerates dry spells, but benefits from regular watering during summer. A common mistake is planting it in partial shade or heavy soils, which significantly reduces its flowering and vigor.
How to save a dying Red hot poker
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or browning leaves from the base; sparse or no flowering. 🌿
- First aid
- If soil is waterlogged, remove plant, check roots, repot in well-draining substrate. Reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter or heavy soils. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted. Requires quick action.