A sturdy South African native, known for its unique flower spikes and tough, grass-like foliage. The species has bicolor spikes in shades of orange and yellow, with the coloring fading into each other in an ombre-pattern. A plant of substance, it does well alone, in mass, or lining drives and entries. There are cultivars with flower size and color variations from the species. Deer and rabbit resistant. Attracts hummingbirds. Very drought and heat tolerant. Grows about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, though it will get wider in time.
Plant in full sun to mostly sun in well drained soil, preferably sandy-loam soils, in full sun to mostly sun. They will grow in a clay soil that has been amended with compost. Cut off spent flower spikes to maintain a tidy appearance. If necessary, divide in spring, though it will manage quite well if left undisturbed for years. Heavy, soggy soils are nearly always death for the kniphofia. Species grows 3 feet tall and wide, though in time it will be wider. Also commonly called red-hot poker, this name gets a little confusing when used with cultivars that aren't, well, red, so we prefer the common name torchlily. An excellent cut flower. Sometimes evergreen in a mild winter or where planted to maximize winter sun.