Brighten up your garden with the striking beauty of Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia), also known as Torch Lily. Known for its vibrant, tubular flowers that bloom in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, this perennial plant is a showstopper in any landscape. Red Hot Poker is not only a visual delight but also attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a fantastic addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Whether planted in beds, containers, or as part of a larger garden display, this hardy plant will add a bold splash of color year after year.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Blooms: The striking red, orange, and yellow flowers of Red Hot Poker resemble flames, creating a dramatic, eye-catching display.
• Attracts Pollinators: The tubular flowers are perfect for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, making it a fantastic choice for pollinator gardens.
• Perennial Growth: This hardy perennial returns year after year, offering long-lasting beauty and color to your garden without replanting.
• Low Maintenance: Red Hot Poker is a relatively easy-to-care-for plant, thriving in a variety of soil types and weather conditions.
• Versatile in the Garden: Suitable for beds, borders, patios, or containers, this plant can be used to add vertical interest or as a focal point in your outdoor space.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, Red Hot Poker is highly drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance option for dry gardens or hot climates.
• Pollinator Friendly: By attracting beneficial pollinators, this plant helps support the overall health and biodiversity of your garden ecosystem.

How to Plant Red Hot Poker Seeds

Planting Season:

Sow Red Hot Poker Seeds in early spring, after the last frost date, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost for an earlier bloom.

Seed Preparation:

Scarify or lightly nick the seeds with sandpaper to improve germination. Soak the seeds for 24 hours before planting for the best results.

Planting Instructions:

• Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep in well-draining soil.
• Spacing: Space seeds 12–18 inches apart to allow the plants to grow and spread.
• Light Requirements: Full sun is ideal for vibrant blooms, though Red Hot Poker can tolerate some light shade.
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil is best for this plant. Avoid soggy conditions to prevent root rot.

Water and Care

• Watering Needs: Keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period. Once established, Red Hot Poker is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells.
• Temperature: Red Hot Poker thrives in moderate to warm temperatures, typically between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
• Mulching: Add mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the roots cool during hot summer months.
• Pruning: Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth and improve the plant’s overall appearance.

Perfect For

• Pollinator Gardens: Red Hot Poker is a magnet for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, making it an excellent choice for attracting wildlife to your garden.
• Patios and Containers: Thrives in containers, making it perfect for adding vibrant color to patios, decks, or balconies.
• Beds and Borders: Plant in flower beds or as part of a mixed border to create vertical interest and dramatic color.
• Low-Maintenance Landscapes: With its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements, this plant is ideal for busy gardeners or those looking for a low-maintenance garden option.
• Cut Flowers: The colorful blooms are perfect for adding a striking element to fresh flower arrangements or bouquets.

Recommended Coverage

A packet of Red Hot Poker Seeds will cover up to 30 square feet, depending on the spacing and growing conditions.

Add Bold Color and Attract Pollinators to Your Garden

Order Red Hot Poker Seeds today and enjoy the stunning, fiery blooms of this perennial plant. Whether you’re looking to add dramatic color to your landscape, attract pollinators, or grow a low-maintenance garden, Red Hot Poker is the perfect choice. Grow it in your garden, container, or patio, and watch it thrive year after year!