KNIPHOFIA

Also called "red hot poker" the kniphofia (Kniphofia uvaria) is widespread in upland savannas throughout central and Eastern Africa. It is a popular garden plant and grows as a perennial even in temperate regions. It was named after a Dutchman, Johann Hieronymus Kniphof (1704-1763), professor of medicine and a botanical illustrator. There are about 50 species in the genus, restricted to southern Africa.