Kniphofia caulescens

This torch lily originates in South Africa (Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Lesotho) where it grows in moist or even marshy areas because it is quite thirsty. In its home frost-free environment it is an evergreen perennial with semi-woody base (just like yucca), but it can be cultivated down to zone 6 where it is deciduous or semi-evergreen. It is a rhizomatous perennial forming compact colonies and self-seeding in hot climates.

In midsummer rise almost a meter tall, particularly thick stems (leek is a popular nickname) with massive spike-like inflorescence (botanically it is an upright raceme). It is composed of numerous, soft scarlet red funnels which open from the bottom upwards, and as they open, they turn bright yellow with protruding stamens providing a fascinating bicolour effect.

Other varieties of torch lily can easily be mixed up but you won’t confuse this one. Its massive foliage is the tell even before flowering time. The leaves are 5-7 cm wide, almost one meter long and bending in half, and significantly glaucous (blue green). In warm climates they are evergreen, and in areas on the border of its hardiness they benefit from tying up before winter, to form a canopy over the crown protecting it from excess moisture and deep frost. Release them again in spring and cut back all bad or unsightly leaves leaving about 10 cm above the crown.

Torch lily needs a location in full sun and humus-rich, moist but well drained soil. Feeding is not necessary, but a good phosphorus-based fertilizer will enhance production of new flower buds and the clump will grow faster and stronger. Just beware of slugs that can severely damage flowers buds, especially as they are borne at the ground level, but they also often climb the stems at night to feast on the unopened buds at the very top. In spring after all frosts remove old and dry leaves from the bottom of the plant. It is hardy to about -25°C if mulched well. Further crown protection is required in frost-prone areas as written above.

Last update 30-08-2020