Kniphofia uvaria

Torch Lily is one of the many species of the genus Kniphofia and shares the common name Red Hot Poker, as both have flower spikes that resemble a hot poker. Torch Lily is an upright, clumping, flowering, evergreen perennial, native to South Africa. It is a dramatic and ornamental plant with a 2 foot tall clump of 3 inch basel leaves and 4 foot tall flower scapes with 10 inch drooping flowers that start off red but turn to yellow. The genus name honors Johann Hieronymus Kniphof (1704-1763), a German physician and botanist. The species name means “like a bunch of grapes”.

Torch Lily does best in average to sandy, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. It prefers rich, humusy soils, but will not tolerate wet, heavy soils. Site in an area protected from wind and cold and promptly remove spent flower spikes. Once established, it is best not to disturb or move the plants.

This plant is resistant to damage by deer and is slightly salt tolerant.  It can spread easily by means of rhizomes, propagated by division in the spring, or grown from seed.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious diseases or insect pests. Root rot in poorly-drained soils and thrips may appear in some areas. Torch Lily does not do well in cold winters and will benefit from mulch. Alternatively, you can tie the leaves together to form a canopy over the crown to prevent water from settling on the crown and freezing.