Rooper's red-hot poker

Best grown in a sandy soil that has been enriched with humus, but any deep, moist but well-drained soil will do. Good drainage in winter is essential. Full sun is best; can tolerate partial shade but flowering is reduced

Old flower stems can be cut down after flowering. Trim back old winter damaged foliage in spring

Propagate by division of established clumps in late spring. Propagate by taking offshoots from the crown

Can be damaged by slugs and snails. Thrips may cause mottling of the foliage

Generally disease free, if winter drainage is good. Violet root rot may be a problem