Kniphofia 'Flamenco'

Kniphofia 'Flamenco' Care Guide

Kniphofia 'Flamenco', commonly known as Red Hot Poker, is a striking perennial that adds bold color and architectural interest to gardens. This variety is known for its fiery flower spikes in shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a standout in borders and flower beds. It is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for long-lasting blooms and drought resistance.

Plant Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Kniphofia ‘Flamenco’
• Common Name: Red Hot Poker ‘Flamenco’
• Family: Asphodelaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Mature Size: Typically grows 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) in height and 1.5–2 feet (45–60 cm) in spread
• Foliage: Narrow, grass-like, deep green leaves
• Flower Color: A mix of red, orange, and yellow
• Bloom Time: Early summer to autumn
• Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 5–9
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming with upright flower spikes

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun; at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for best flowering.
• Soil Preferences: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Prefers sandy or loamy soils but can tolerate clay if drainage is improved.
• Watering Needs: Once established, Kniphofia 'Flamenco' is drought-tolerant. Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
• Temperature and Humidity: Tolerant of a wide range of temperatures but thrives in warmer climates. Protect roots in colder regions with mulch during winter.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. A light top dressing of compost can also be beneficial.

Planting and Maintenance

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow good air circulation and healthy growth.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate roots during winter.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming. Cut back foliage in late autumn or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance.
• Dividing Clumps: Every 3–5 years, divide mature clumps in early spring or late summer to rejuvenate the plant and increase airflow.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free, though aphids may occasionally appear. Good drainage helps prevent root rot and fungal diseases.

Benefits and Uses

• Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting biodiversity.
• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
• Ornamental Value: Provides bold color and structure to borders, mixed beds, and cottage gardens.
• Cut Flowers: The striking flower spikes make beautiful, long-lasting additions to fresh floral arrangements.
• Coastal and Mediterranean Gardens: Thrives in warm, sunny environments and complements gravel gardens and xeriscapes.

Potential Issues and Solutions

• Floppy Growth: If plants become too leggy, they may need staking or cutting back after flowering to promote compact growth.
• Winter Protection: In colder climates, apply a thick mulch layer over the crown to protect from frost damage.
• Poor Flowering: If flowering is sparse, ensure the plant is getting enough sunlight and not overfed with nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which encourage foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Propagation Methods

• Division: The most effective method for propagating Kniphofia ‘Flamenco’ is by dividing clumps in early spring or after flowering in late summer. Replant divisions promptly and water well.
• Seed Propagation: Seeds can be collected from dried flower heads and sown in spring, but may not always produce plants true to the parent variety.

Companion Planting

Kniphofia 'Flamenco' pairs well with a variety of sun-loving plants, including:

• Echinacea (Coneflower) – Provides contrasting flower shapes and attracts pollinators.
• Salvia – Complements the fiery tones with its purple and blue blooms.
• Lavender – Offers a fragrant and drought-tolerant companion.
• Agapanthus – Adds a striking contrast with its blue, globe-like flowers.
• Grasses (Pennisetum, Stipa) – Enhance texture and movement in the garden.

Kniphofia 'Flamenco' is a fantastic addition to any garden, providing vibrant color, minimal maintenance, and excellent drought resistance. With the right care and conditions, it will reward gardeners with striking blooms year after yea

• Size
  3L

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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