Kniphofia 'ORANGE VANILLA POPSICLE™' torch lily, red hot poker
size/type
mid-sized perennial,mid-sized perennial
usual height
0,4-0,6m
usual width
0,3-0,5m
leaves
semi-deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
July-September
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Popsicle™ is a torch lily series bred by Janet N. Egger from Terra Nova Nursery in the USA. In spite of its name we suggest not to eat the flowers nor storing them in a freezer :-) Popsicle™ series comprises of several torch lily varieties of various flower colours or combinations. Most importantly, they are popular for their increased hardiness and tolerance to heavier soil. Both these advantages are very beneficial for Czech and Slovak conditions which is why we recommend Popsicles™ over any other cultivar.
Description of the plant:
Orange Vanilla Popsicle™ is a bi-coloured torch lily variety from the Popsicle™ series. It produces long-lasting, contrasting flowers of pastel red tops and pale yellow bottoms. Its spike-like inflorescence appear atop strong, smooth stems from mid July. Under ideal growing conditions and in fertile soil it will flower continuously until September. Commonly it flowers for about 6 weeks and then repeats flowering in a weaker flush from early September. Semi-deciduous leaves are linear, narrow, dark green, and look like day-lily leaves but are firmer and more erect. Flowering stems are strong and do not bend in wind or rain. Torch lily needs a location in full sun and humus-rich, moist but well drained soil. Having said that we can confirm that Popsicle™ series proved tough and reliable even in more compacted or clay soil without winter rotting. 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. This series is hardy to min. -24°C, possibly a few degrees more if mulched.
Last update 29-09-2019
