These plants can be propagated by seed or by division. caulescens and a variety of attractive cultivars. Some commonly cultivated Kniphofia species include K. They should therefore be left undisturbed for many years until their flowers show signs of deterioration through overcrowding. They will take a year to settle down after being divided and will not flower well. In cultivation Kniphofia resent disturbance. Some summer-flowering species die down in winter and grow again in the early summer. Most species tolerate frost but the winter-flowering species should be protected.

Kniphofia species are generally hardy to semi-hardy. They should also be fertilised monthly during their active growing period. Most species require plenty of water during the growing season if they are to thrive and flower well. Kniphofia grow well in rich soil located in an open sunny position or partial shade. The winter-flowering varieties are particularly useful in providing displays of colour during the dry winter months in the summer rainfall regions. Kniphofia tolerate wind well and are often seen growing close to the coast. These plants can be used at the back of a mixed flower border, in groups in the front of a shrub border, or lining a long driveway. The showy, bright-coloured flowers are ideal for adding a splash of colour to an area or making a bold statement. Red-hot pokers make a brilliant display in a garden and the flowers last for a long time. northiae which can reach a height of 30 cm. The vast majority of Kniphofia species do not produce an aerial stem, but exceptions do occur as is the case with old specimens of K. In some Kniphofia species the rhizome divides forming groups of stems, while in others the stems are more or less solitary. The underground part of the plant consists of a thick rhizome and fibrous, fleshy roots. The leaf surface is glabrous (smooth) in all but one species, namely, K. This distinguishes them from a plant such as Aloe cooperi. The leaves are non-succulent, unlike the leaves of aloes.

Kniphofia form large clumps of arching leaves which are long, narrow and tapering. The small, tubular flowers are produced in shades of red, orange, yellow and cream. They bear dense, erect spikes (elongated inflorescence with stalkless flowers) above the level of the leaves in either winter or summer depending on the species. Most species of Kniphofia are evergreen while a few are deciduous and sprout again in the early summer. Kniphofias are herbaceous perennials growing from rhizomes.

Photo red hot poker flower