They used to get a bad press, considered gaudy and brash, but these are plants that demand a second look. Many flower from early summer until autumn, while other kniphofia (correctly k-nip-HOFF-ee-a after their namesake, Johann Kniphof) are spring or autumn flowering.
Newer cultivars flower over a hugely long season if continually deadheaded. K. ‘Little Maid’, shown here, is one of these, with green, grassy foliage and soft lemon-yellow spikes of flowers 45cm (18in) tall all summer long.
‘Percy’s Pride’ is a creamy lime yellow, flowering early another desirable plant, slightly taller at 60-90cm (2-3ft). Both of these are small plants and tough out cold winters.
‘Shining Sceptre’ is taller at 1.0m (3ft) and a delicious mix of amber and cream. There are more out there, with names like ‘Peaches and Cream’ and 'Ice Queen’ to tantalize the plant-alohics amongst us.
K. rooperi is instantly recognizable as the ‘red hot poker’ from our grandmother’s gardens – spikes of bright red graduate to yellow, the foliage is larger and coarser than the new hybrids but they are tough as nails. These larger pokers can be planted amongst shrubs, where they will hold their own and add interest in colour and contrasting form.
These beauties tolerate heat and humidity, seaside and inland conditions, making them ideal in gardens from North Cape to Bluff, and they are frost-tolerant in most areas.
And, apart from their attraction for gardeners, they are a mecca for bellbirds and tui, which will visit as long as the nectar lasts.
Enjoy!
Kniphofia 'Little Maid'
Cultivation
Most soils, plant in full sun, preferably in an open position
Ensure good moisture levels in the growing season and well drained soils while dormant.
Hollow flower stems can let water into the rosettes in wetter climates, rotting the plant. Cut spent flower stalks to ground level and top with a light mulch in autumn to help prevent this.
Dead-head to encourage a long blooming season
Kniphofias resent moving so divide only when needed, and in spring to allow the plant to recover.
Mulch well in in winter to protect from frost. In extremely cold areas lift and over-winter in a greenhouse.
