Kniphofia 'Fire Dance'

Kniphofia 'Fire Dance': Sparks of Summer in Motion

Vibrant and energetic, Kniphofia 'Fire Dance' lights up the garden with slender spikes of red-orange flowers that fade to golden yellow as they mature. Blooming from midsummer into early fall, these torch-like blooms sway above fine, grass-like foliage, attracting hummingbirds and adding bold colour and movement to sun-filled borders.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 50–60 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm, clump-forming and upright
• Flower Colour: Scarlet red fading to warm yellow
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to early fall
• Foliage: Narrow, arching, grass-like green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerant of drought once established

Uses and Benefits: Kniphofia 'Fire Dance' brings drama and pollinator appeal to sunny borders, prairie-style plantings, and gravel gardens. Its compact size suits smaller spaces, while its long bloom time and intense colour make it an excellent focal point or fiery accent. Loved by hummingbirds and avoided by deer, it’s a dynamic performer in heat and drought-tolerant designs.

Companion Plants: Pair Kniphofia 'Fire Dance' with Agastache 'Guava Lava', whose hot coral blooms echo the Kniphofia’s tones and attract pollinators all summer. Add Achillea 'Sassy Summer Sunset' for feathery gold-orange contrast and shared sun-loving resilience. Anchor the scene with Panicum 'Prairie Fire', whose upright red-tinged blades provide a smoky backdrop and late-season structure.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment, then sparingly. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming. Cut back foliage in late fall or early spring. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring if needed to maintain vigour.

History: Kniphofia 'Fire Dance' is a compact hybrid torch lily selected for its tidy size, improved cold hardiness, and extended bloom season. It combines the exotic flair of Kniphofia with a refined form that suits modern perennial borders.

Final Thoughts: With its glowing colour, fluttering motion, and fiery presence, Kniphofia 'Fire Dance' brings rhythm and brilliance to the summer garden—an easy spark of excitement for sunny, dry-loving spaces.