Kniphofia 'Red Rocket' (Red hot poker)
Kniphofia ‘Red Rocket’ produces vivid coral-red flower spikes that light up sunny borders, gravel gardens and prairie-style planting, bringing bold colour and strong vertical shape through late summer.
An herbaceous perennial reaching around 60cm in height (and taller in flower), it forms a clump of strap-like foliage and sends up repeated spikes that open gradually, extending the flowering display into autumn.
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil for best performance. A warm, sheltered position helps the stems stay upright and encourages strong colouring, especially in cooler or windier gardens.
Water to establish, then only during prolonged dry spells. Feed in spring, and remove spent stems to encourage more blooms. Leave foliage over winter for protection, then tidy in spring as growth resumes.
Perfect for hot borders and wildlife-friendly planting, kniphofia pairs beautifully with grasses, echinacea and late-summer perennials, and provides long-lasting cut stems as well.
| Botanical name | Kniphofia 'Red Rocket' |
| Flower colour | Coral-red |
| Tuber size | Grade I (Top Size) |
| Established height | 60–100 cm |
| Established spread | 45 cm |
| Plant spacing | 3 per m² |
| Leaf colour | Green |
| Habit | Clump-forming |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Hardiness | Fully hardy |
| Years to establish | 1st year |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Position | Exposed or Sheltered |
| Suitable for | Pots, Borders, Cutting garden |
| Soil acidity | Any |
| Soil moisture | Well-drained |
| Soil type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| RHS Award (AGM) | No |
| Growing skill | Easy to grow |
| Pollinator-friendly | Yes |
| Deer resistant | No |
Planting and Flowering Calendar
Key Features
Packed in paper
Packed peat-free
Great for Shade
Attracts wildlife
Drought tolerant
Good for cutting

