Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia sp.
GATHERING:
The beauty of redhot poker is that the leaves can be gathered as and when you need them, however the end of Winter, early Spring is a good time to collect a quantity and clean up the dead leaves at the same time. Hang the leaves from the tips in bundles of 20 or so. I give them a few days outside (out of the rain) for some intial drying before moving them indoors. The leaves take approx three weeks to dry completely. STORAGE: Once dry, these leaves will last indefinitely. TO USE: Wrap the amount you intend to use in a damp towel overnight, to return the leaves to pliability. These leaves are wonderful for twining and good to include in a stitched basket. Ideal for beginners too, as they have a certain give to them and are nice and soft to use. |
DESCRIPTION:
Named for its tall red/orange flowers, redhot poker is a strappy leafed plant that grows in clumps. There are many varieties, some with leaves that are broader at the base, though as a weaver the narrower longer leaves are preferable. This plant grows really well in Australia, in well drained soil, it is also quite drought tolerant. As a native of South Africa however care is needed in relation to its capacity to be invasive. 
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USES FOR REDHOT POKER
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