The Kniphofia is a member from the Asphodelaceae family and is commonly named red hot poker or torch lily. Most species come from eastern and southern Africa, but also two species come from Madagascar and one from Yemen. The Kniphofia species differ in height, flower colors and flowering times. Most species are evergreen.
The Kniphofia has very characteristic flowers. On a long, leafless scape many small flowers form a dense, elongated spike. The small, tubular flowers are produced in shades of red, orange, yellow and creme.
The torch lily grows rhizomes and fibrous, fleshy roots and spreads using the rhizomes.
Most Kniphofia species naturally grow near rivers or in places where conditions become damp or marshy for part of the year. Only a small number of species prefer dry conditions with good drainage.
Torch lilies are heat and salt tolerant. They prefer a sunny spot, but they tolerate some shade. Less sun means less flowers. They like well-drained, fertile and slightly moist soil. They do not like moist soil in the winter.
The Kniphofia does not like to be disturbed. They will take about a year to settle down after being divided and will not flower well. It is best to only dig them up if their flowers show signs of deterioration through overcrowding.
You can propagate torch lilies by seed or by division. Division will be quickest because seed will take a long time to produce flowering plants. It is best to divide in spring.
The Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’ is smaller than the Kniphofia ‘Alcazar’. The leaves grow about 40 inches (1 meter) long, but they bend and fold a bit. That is why the leaves reach a height of about 26 inches (65 cm). The flower stems reach a height of about 20 inches (50 cm). They make excellent cut flowers and attract hummingbirds, bees and butterflies.
The Kniphofia ‘Fire Glow’ is tolerant to drought and evergreen. If you apply winter protection in winters that are colder than 5 ºF (-15 ºC) they can survive colder winters as well. Do not cut back the leaves before the winter.
Attracts bees: yes
Characteristic: evergreen
Deer resistant: yes
Exposure: sun/ part shade
Flower color: orange
Flowering time: August – September
Foliage color: green
Fragrant flower: no
Hardiness: 5 ºF (-15 ºC)
Height: 26 inches (65 cm)
Soil: normal/moist