Most of the nearly 70 species in this aloe family (Aloeaceae) genus are native to South Africa. They are clump-forming perennials with grassy to sword-shaped, often ever-green foliage that emerges from vigorous rhizomes. From summer to autumn, bod spikes of intensely colored flowers are borne in bottlebrush heads at the top of strong, tall, upright stems, giving rise to the common names of red-hot poker and torch lily. Many hybrids and cultivars have been raised in a variety of sizes and flower colors; apart from the original yellows and oranges, white and red flowers are now also available. Kniphofia plants, named for the German professor Johann Hieronymus Kniphof (1704-1763), make excellent cut flowers.
CULTIVATION
Hardiness varies, though none will tolerate repeated heavy frosts. They are best planted in an open sunny position with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Water and feed well when in active growth. The bulk will tolerate salt winds and thrive near the coast. Propagation is usually by division after flowering, or from seed.
Top Tip
Choose a mixture of the original yellow and orange flowering species, with their old-fashioned charm, and the newer cultivars, which delight with their bolder colors.
CULTIVATION
Hardiness varies, though none will tolerate repeated heavy frosts. They are best planted in an open sunny position with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Water and feed well when in active growth. The bulk will tolerate salt winds and thrive near the coast. Propagation is usually by division after flowering, or from seed.
Top Tip
Choose a mixture of the original yellow and orange flowering species, with their old-fashioned charm, and the newer cultivars, which delight with their bolder colors.
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