Kniphofia Little Maid - Red Hot Poker

The fresh colour of Kniphofia 'Little Maid', also known as tritoma or red-hot poker, is highly fashionable and has contributed to its success, especially as it takes up less space than traditional hybrids. This perennial brings softness to borders and bouquets. The slender flower spikes display a range of pale green-yellow and ivory shades that attract pollinators from summer to autumn. Its upright foliage and slender, delicate habit provide structure to dense plantings. It thrives in light but rich soils and enjoys full sun.

The exotic appearance of Kniphofia undoubtedly comes from their African origin. Although many hybrids have appeared, they have retained common characteristics. It is a rhizomatous perennial that forms an upright, even bristly, clump. Its long, slender, leathery deciduous leaves possess slightly sharp margins. They emerge from its base and develop in a fan shape, forming a beautiful cup with flexible and trailing edges. It brings lightness to flower beds and comes to life in the wind. The long flower spikes rise and bear a somewhat comical crown at their top, made up of many small, long, pendulous bells with prominent stamens. Their flowering is progressive from bottom to top and evolves in shades: they gradually fade. They are highly popular with insects and complement summer bouquets with their vibrant colours.

'Little Maid' is a medium-sized variety measuring 60cm (24in) in height and reaching a mature width of approximately 45cm (18in). It produces a multitude of pale-yellow and ivory inflorescences that are much easier to combine than the orange and yellow red-hot pokers. It easily fits into a grouping of various sizes. Its gentle colour will pair well with companions such as Coreopsis 'Moonbeam', Delphinium 'Pacific Summer Skies', and Gaura 'Whirling Butterflies'. However, its lovely yellow and fluffy foliage will blend perfectly in an area dedicated to grasses and wild herbs.

Red-hot pokers thrive in sunny exposures but need water in summer. They do not require much watering in winter. Monitor their location and substrate under certain climates. They need rich soil that is well-drained but not too dried out. They can withstand temperatures below -10°C (14°F), but mulching will help them withstand freezing temperatures.