Kniphofia 'Novelty Mix' is valued for its vivid torch like flower spikes in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Known for its bold vertical structure and extended bloom season, it adds fiery color and architectural interest to sunny gardens and pollinator borders.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers well drained soil; tolerates sandy and average garden soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established but performs best with occasional watering during dry spells
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Not native to North America. Kniphofia species originate from southern and eastern Africa and have been adapted into numerous cultivars for ornamental use worldwide.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Painted Ladies and Swallowtails, which are drawn to its upright nectar rich flowers.
Bees
- Visited by native bumblebees and honeybees that forage through the tubular flowers for pollen and nectar.
Hummingbirds
- Ruby Throated Hummingbirds are frequent visitors, attracted by the bold colors and tubular shape ideal for their feeding style.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow room for clump development and airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for sunny borders, xeriscapes, and as a dramatic vertical accent in mixed perennial beds or pollinator gardens.
Companion Plants
- Agastache 'Blue Fortune' (Anise Hyssop) - Offers upright lavender spikes that contrast with Kniphofia's fiery tones while attracting pollinators.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Silvery foliage and tall lavender plumes complement the warm colors and texture of red hot pokers.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Bright golden blooms echo the warm hues and create long lasting visual harmony.
- Eryngium planum (Flat Sea Holly) - Adds metallic blue flower heads and architectural structure to balance the bold flowers of Kniphofia.
- Stachys byzantina (Lamb’s Ear) - Soft silver foliage creates an attractive textural and color contrast at the base of taller flowering plants.