Kniphofia is a unique looking plant and can bring an exotic feel to a traditional garden. Blooms last for many weeks starting in early summer before tapering off three to four weeks later. We like 'High Roller' for the color and performance. Coral orange flowers fade to a cream color in a gradient transition as flowers open. This transition starts coral and fades to cream as flower mature, first at the base of the stem and moving upward. The downward facing flowers of Kniphofia are part of its unique character, but the wispy grass-like foliage is another element that brings eye-catching character to the garden.

Even though Kniphofia looks exotic it's hardy as far north as Zone 5B (which includes) Michigan. A native to South American it made its way north because it provides tremendous garden value, combining light grass-like foliage with tall colorful flower spikes. It is an excellent choice for the middle or rear of a garden bed as the grass-like foliage keeps a lovely shape and texture, while the tall flower spikes rise above the garden in a magnificent display of color and exotic beauty.

Photo Credit: Walter Gardens

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Kniphofia 'High Roller' - Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia does best in hot, dry sunny locations. It is adaptable to moist soils as long as they drain well and once established becomes very draught tolerant. Watering during the bloom period will increase the quality of the blooms. In more mild regions Kniphofia can remain evergreen, but in cooler zones it will die back to the base of the plant. Regardless of your region the foliage and appearance will benefit from having the leaf tips trimmed starting in the early spring. This will stimulate new healthy growth and keep your kniphofia looking fine. Some growers recommend tying up the foliage in cooler climates (5 and 6), so that it is above the root crown. This keeps water from settling into the base of the plant and freezing, which can damage the sensitive crown. We also recommend a health application of mulch around the base of the plant to ensure it is protected from adverse cold and windy weather conditions.