Kniphofia

Kniphofia (Tritoma, Red hot poker, Torch lily, Poker plant) is a genus of plants in the family Asphodelaceae that includes 70 or more species native to Africa. Some species have been commercially used for horticultural use and are commonly known for their bright, rocket-shaped flowers.

These plants produce spikes of brightly-colored, hanging, red-to-orange flowers. This gives names such as "torch" and "red hot poker" to many of them.

The Kniphofia genus is named after Johann Hieronymus Kniphof, a 18th century German physician and botanist.


Selected species
Kniphofia reflexa is a species of plant in the Asphodelaceae family. It is endemic to Cameroon. Its natural habitat is swamps. It is threatened by habitat loss.

Kniphofia uvaria is also known as Tritoma, Torch Lily or Red Hot Poker due to the shape and color of its inflorescence. The leaves are reminiscent of a lily, and the flowerhead can reach up to 5 feet in height. There are many varieties of torch lily, and they bloom at different times during the growing season. The flowers are red, orange, and yellow.
It originates from South Africa, and has been introduced into many parts of the world, such as North America and Europe as a garden plant. It is hardy in zones 5-10.

Kniphofia stricta

Kniphofia hirsuta

Kniphofia brachystachya

Kniphofia sarmentosa

Kniphofia caulescens

Kniphofia rufa

Kniphofia triangularis

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