Red Hot Poker

Kniphofia uvaria

The Red Hot Poker is a plant of bold, unapologetic character — its torch-like spikes of flame-coloured flowers rising dramatically above strap-like foliage to command attention at the back of the late-summer border. A magnet for hummingbirds in its native Africa and for bees and long-tongued insects in the British garden, it rewards well-drained soil and full sun with spectacular longevity.