Kniphofia 'Papaya Popsicle'

‘Papaya Popsicle’ is a compact Kniphofia in Terra Nova’s Popsicle series, with upright orange-red flower spikes above short, grassy green foliage. The breeder lists foliage about 12in tall by 18in wide, flower stems to 20in, blooms from June through October, and USDA zones 6–9. [Terra Nova plant details](https://www.terranovanurseries.com/product/kniphofia-papaya-popsicle/) ## Garden Use This dwarf selection fits sunny small gardens, the front of a mixed border, or a container where its vivid flower spikes can be seen above the leaves. It forms clumps and reblooms through the warm season; Terra Nova lists average garden water and full sun. The compact habit distinguishes it from taller red-hot pokers, while the orange and red flowers echo the color range of other Popsicle cultivars. The breeder also lists it for cut flowers and notes that hummingbirds visit the blooms. Plant in free-draining soil, since Kniphofia crowns are vulnerable to persistent winter wet. [RHS Kniphofia growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/kniphofia/growing-guide); [U.S. patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP22915P2/en). ## Maintenance Water during establishment and active growth, then avoid waterlogged winter soil. Remove spent spikes for a tidier display and leave healthy leaves in place until spring growth begins. Divide crowded clumps or remove offsets in spring.