Red hot pokers (Kniphofia) are herbaceous perennials prized for their tall, showstopping flower spikes in bright red, orange, yellow, and other colors. They are also commonly known as torch lilies, though they are not true lilies (i.e., they are not members of the Liliaceae family). There are over 60 species in the Kniphofia genus, and most of the varieties available today are hybrids. Among the most popular are the dwarf cultivars that have clumping foliage reaching 1 to 2 feet high and flower stalks that stand over 2 feet tall. By comparison, one common species plant, Kniphofia uvaria, reaches 3 to 4 feet in height.Perhaps the best feature of these plants is their long blooming period. Many varieties will brighten a garden with bright flowers for much of the summer. They are best planted in spring and will reach full height within each growing season.