Torch Lily (Kniphofia spp.)

Torch lily (Kniphofia spp.), aka “red hot poker”, is an easy to grow long-lived perennial from South Africa. Its colorful floral spike (and a little imagination) resembles a fiery torch or sizzling poker, visited often by hummingbirds, bees and butterflies.

New cultivars are mostly hybrids and vary in plant height and flower color. Starting in May one or more floral spikes arise 18 inches to 4 feet in height, depending on the cultivar(s) planted. Color choices include off-whites, yellows, oranges, reds, and blends of two or more tints. From the months of June thru October additional re-blooming follows soon after the spent floral scapes are pruned off.

Torch lily excels when planted in an average well-drained soil. Full to partial (6 hours minimum) sunlight is ideal. Most, but not all, cultivars are cold hardy in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA zones 6 and7). The sharp edged grass-like foliage is evergreen, but tends to take a beating in rough winters. Prune back the entire plant near the soil line in late winter for a fresh start.

A 2-year and older plant clump is both heat and drought tolerant. Every 3-4 years rhizomes are dug and divided either in early fall or late winter. Torch lily has few serious disease and insect problems. Root rot may become a significant problem when planted in a poorly drained soil.