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How to Grow The Torch Lily...
Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria
November 5, 1999
The stately flowers of the Torch Lily, Kniphofia uvaria provide a dramatic display, when grown in a space where the entire plant is visible. Make this planting space directly in front of an evergreen background, or as a 'stand alone' specimen, and it is sure to turn heads.
The multi-colored flower spikes will reach 2-5 feet in height, depending on the variety. The coloring may range from ivory and orange to coral red. If you have sufficient space, you can select varieties to provide bloom during every month from May through October!
Torch lilies are a favorite of hummingbirds. They are hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Kniphofias must be grown in full sun. Provide adequate spacing for these plants which may spread up to three feet over time. Good drainage is essential to prevent crown rot, otherwise these plants are tolerant of most soil types. Although they will survive periods of drought, they will do better if they are given abundant water during hot weather.
Tritomas may be planted in the spring or in the fall months. Add compost and a small amount of peat moss to 'lighten' the soil, and plant this perennial at the same level at which it was previously growing (NEVER with the crown deeper than three inches.) The soil pH for growing Kniphofias should be near neutral (6.0-6.5)
Torch lilies are not always reliably hardy so provide winter protection by mulching. Although the foliage is evergreen, it tends to take a beating in the winter months. It is helpful to tie foliage together in the fall, to prevent water entering the crown. Another option is to cut the foliage off at the base in late fall. Dead or damaged foliage should be cut off in the spring, if it was not cut off previously. Fading flower spikes should be removed promptly, to encourage more bloom.
Kniphofia may be propagated by division or from seed.
Division should be done in the spring, or late fall, after which blooming may be reduced for one to three years. Each division may be potted up, and held in a cold frame until new growth is established, or transplanted to a new location.
Seeds may be sown indoors at any time. The seeds need 6 weeks of moist chilling in the refrigerator, prior to planting. After sowing, keep them at 70-75 degrees F. Germination normally occurs in about 20 days, but may take up to 3 months for certain cultivars.
| Variety |
Height |
Color |
Bloom time |
| Earliest of All |
18-24" |
orange, red, yellow |
early summer |
| Alcazar |
36-48" |
bright red |
early summer |
| Springtime |
36-48" |
coral, yellow |
early summer |
| Gold Mine |
36" |
amber |
mid-summer |
| Little Maid |
18-24" |
yellow, cream |
mid-summer |
| Royal Standard |
36-48" |
scarlet, yellow |
mid-summer |
| Shining Scepter |
36" |
tangerine |
mid-summer |
| Rosea Superba |
30-36" |
bright red |
mid-summer |
| Royal Castle |
24-36" |
orange, yellow |
mid-summer |
| Pfitzeri |
36" |
orange, red |
late summer |
| Galpinii |
36" |
orange |
late summer |
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