Photo: Kniphofia_uvaria.jpg: Toby Hudson derivative work: 99of9 (talk), CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Red hot poker: when and how to prune
Kniphofia uvaria
Red hot poker is best pruned in April and September.
| Pruning months | April and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Red hot poker: when to prune it?
Spent spikes in August–September, and the old leaves only in April.
Red hot poker: how to prune it?
- Cut faded flower stems as low as possible at the base, as soon as they have finished.
- Don’t cut the leaves in autumn; tie them together above the crown instead.
- In April, remove old, dead leaves and shorten the rest to 10–15 cm, just above the new growth.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Red hot poker flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: Never cut the leaves off in autumn: the crown is then exposed to rain and frost.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Red hot poker · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.