Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Red Hot Poker
Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria) is a bold South African perennial in the asparagus family, producing tall, torch-like flower spikes with tubular florets in fiery gradients of red, orange, and yellow that are irresistible to hummingbirds. The grass-like, arching foliage forms substantial clumps that provide year-round structure, with blooms typically appearing in late spring through summer. Native to the grasslands and mountain slopes of South Africa, it is a dramatic accent plant for sunny, well-drained borders. Starting at $18.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Orange, Red
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Requires full sun (6+ hours direct sun daily) for best bloom. In hotter NE Florida climates, light afternoon shade can prevent heat stress without significantly reducing flowering.
Highly drought-tolerant once established — water sparingly and avoid overwatering, which causes crown and root rot. Newly planted specimens benefit from moderate watering during the first growing season.
Requires sharply drained, sandy or well-drained soil — NE Florida's sandy soils are ideal. Avoid heavy clay or poorly drained sites. Little to no fertilizer is needed; if desired, apply a low-nitrogen slow-release fertilizer once in spring.
Similar needs
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Common questions
Is Red Hot Poker a good plant for St. Augustine?
Red Hot Poker is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 2-4 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.