Red Hot Poker

The vleis and riverbanks of the Midlands are dotted with lovely orange wands at the moment, commonly called red hot pokers. Making the most of the abundant rain and watery wetlands.

Two species of Kniphofia flower at this time of the year. In the midlands, K. linearifolia is common, whereas, in the Drakensberg, you will more likely find K. caulescens.

Kniphofia linearifolia – common marsh poker, umathunga, vuurpyl

Groups of up to 1,5m tall have pale green leaves, which are strongly keeled and often finely toothed along the edges.  The striking flowers are greenish yellow at the base tapering to orangey red at the tip.

Along the road from Howick to Karkloof there is a breathtaking display of Kniphofia linearifolia in full bloom, also on the banks of the Lions River in Lidgetton, and the Elands River in Boston.

Kniphofia caulescens – Lesotho red hot poker, leoele-la-loti, icacane

At higher altitudes, you will come across this member of the family. The plant is seldom taller than 1m. The leaves are large, blueish-grey-green, mostly erect or sometimes bent on the upper half. The large inflorescence is very dense and bi-coloured.

Other Kniphofia that you might see at the moment are the elegant Kniphofia laxiflora with drooping flowers loosely arranged on tall spikes varying from yellow to salmon pink.  Just finished are the lovely Kniphofia latifolia which have more subtle colours and less dense inflorescences.

All the Knipofias are excellent garden perennials, some are deciduous.  The flowers last for a long time. Just perfect for that soggy spot in the sunshine, but if kept watered will add a wonderful accent to a mixed border.  Black sunbirds particularly love the nectar-rich flowers, as do pollinating insects.

It is best not to disturb established clumps too often, although they can be divided when they become overcrowded.  Very easy to germinate from seed which can be planted out after only about 6 months.  As is common with many South African plants, Kniphofia have been hybridised and are popular garden plants around the world.

A selection of glorious pokers photographed in the KZN Midlands.