My friends N and S, curious, naughty old biddies who could have walked straight out of Agatha Christie's St. Mary's Mead, tell me it's called "red hot poker". They add a nudge and a wink in generous measure in case I'd missed their point!
I'd asked earlier this morning if anyone could tell me the flower's real (and less salacious!) name! Thank you, moya & Sare from Thorn Tree. Because of you, I now know that this plant is known as Kniphofia Uvaria, Tritoma, or Torch Lily. The colour (red, flaming orange and yellow) and shape of its flowers probably lead to its being so named. The flowers, as you can see in the picture, are tubular in shape and rich in nectar. This plant can grow up to five feet in height. I find it interesting that kniphofias are classified as weeds in some parts of the world as they threaten sensitive ecosystems, especially in swampy areas.
For the detail-minded among us:
For the detail-minded among us:
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Liliales, according to the vade mecum; asparagales, according to Wikipedia.
Family: Liliaceae, according to the vade mecum; asphodelaceae, according to Wikipedia.
Genus: Kniphofia Muench
Species: Kniphofia Uvaria
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3 comments:
Came here through 'Muse Cruise'. Love flowers and love Agatha Christie.
The name 'red-hot poker' is more likely to stick in one's memory than 'torch lily'. :)
I think I liked the "red hot poker" better. :)
Thanks for stopping by, Banno.
Heyyyy, Velu! Hello Stranger! How have you been? I love your blog on your Dad. Makes me all choke-y; in a nice way.
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