Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Red Hot Poker
MainColor	Orange
PlantType	Herb
Growth Type	Cultivated
Season	August
ImageUrl	Kniphofia-001
Photographer	DP
Location	Glyndebourne
Human Toxicity	Non_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

Kniphofia uvaria is a striking perennial with tall flower spikes that transition from red to yellow as they mature, giving rise to the name “Red Hot Poker.” The sword-like leaves and dramatic blooms make it a popular ornamental plant in sunny borders. It prefers well-drained soil and tolerates drought once established.

Distribution

Native to South Africa; widely cultivated and naturalised in parts of western Europe, including southern England.

Medicinal/Other Uses

Limited traditional use in African herbal medicine for urinary and digestive ailments, though rarely applied today.

Edibility

No

Human Toxicity

Sap may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Pet Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested; may cause vomiting or diarrhoea.

Active Compounds

Contains saponins and phenolic compounds; some species in the genus have been found to contain mild irritants.