Most temperate gardeners don't get the chance to grow many African plants outdoors, but Kniphofia is up for the job! I've only grown them a couple times myself as I have primarily grown in zones 3 and 4, but I tried some this summer, and they were worth it, even if they don't survive winter. I'm planning on keeping a few in pots next season.

Their exotic appearance make them blend perfectly into tropical style plantings, desert gardens, mediterranean schemes, and even grassy borders. We grow a few in our "meadow" garden along side grasses, baptisias and heliopsis. They are surprisingly versatile companions. The overbearing colors of the early strains used to discourage me, but some the new designer tones have renewed my interest in this genus. PYROMANIA Collection - All propagation prohibited

Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens