Torch Lily

Kniphofia uvaria (L.) Oken

Torch Lily has tall spikes of colorful flowers that look like they are on fire! They are great for attracting birds and butterflies to your garden.

Habitat: Sunny gardens and wildflower areas

Appearance

The Torch Lily has striking, upright flower spikes that look like flaming torches. Its tubular flowers are packed tightly, typically transitioning from fiery red or orange at the top to bright yellow or cream at the bottom. Long, slender, grass-like leaves form a clump at its base.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaFamilyXanthorrhoeaceaeGenusKniphofia

Torch Lily

Interesting facts

Hummingbirds absolutely love these plants, darting between the fiery blooms for nectar!

Its flower spikes often change color as they open, getting brighter as they mature!

Some types of Torch Lilies can even bloom in winter, adding color to cold gardens!

The 'torch' flowers point upward when young, then often droop downwards when fully open!

Special abilities

Torch Lily has vibrant, nectar-rich flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees, ensuring efficient pollination and reproduction.

Torch Lily can store water in its fleshy, tuberous roots, helping it survive long periods of drought and heat.

Measurements & details

Height: 60-150 cm
Spread: 60-90 cm
Flower Size: 15-30 cm
Bloom Season: Summer to early Fall
Is Edible: No
Toxicity: Mild
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Bird

Ecological connections

pollinates

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

Sips nectar while pollinating flowers.

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen from the blooms.

pollinates

Greater Double-collared Sunbird

Nectarinia afra

Key pollinator in its native Southern African habitat.

pollinates

Citrus Swallowtail

Papilio demodocus

Visits flowers for nectar in its native range.

Traits

Summer Blooming

Enjoy the sunny days with these vibrant plants that show off their stunning flowers all through the warmest months, adding color to the long summer days.