Kniphofia uvaria
Torch lily
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Description
The torch lily (Kniphofia uvaria) is an imposing perennial from the South African Cape region, dominating any perennial bed with its candle‑shaped flower spikes in red, orange, and yellow. It can be used as a solitary accent in sunny beds, paired with ornamental grasses, or planted in large containers on the terrace. Popular cultivars such as 'Royal Standard' (yellow‑red, about 100 to 120 cm) or the more compact 'Papaya Popsicle' (papaya‑orange to gold‑yellow, up to 50 cm) enrich the garden from midsummer to autumn. Its flower tubes attract bees and butterflies.
Care instructions
Plant the torch lily in a full‑sun, wind‑protected location on well‑drained, moderately humus‑rich soil, waterlogging is its greatest enemy because the fleshy roots rot quickly. Water moderately during dry periods and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In autumn, loosely bind the long leaves together and cover the crowns with leaf litter or spruce twigs to prevent winter moisture from reaching the plant's heart. Every three to four years, divide the crown in spring, which renews flowering vigor and produces new plants.
Soil & site
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