Red-hot Poker Flower

This red-hot poker flower I saw growing in the centre of Sheffield. Known as Kniphofia to those who prefer Latin names, it may bloom from March to November, giving a better return than most plants. During the winter, its dead foliage looks untidy, but helps to protect the crown from cold frosts and snow. The prudent gardener will dispose of this only once spring has come, while the foolish gardener will strip it away before it has completed its work, on account of its scruffy appearance.

Be honest: do you ever doubt the wisdom of the Great Gardener? Sometimes He prunes too soon, calling the best people to heaven while still we need them here; other times, He allows us to remain too long, even though we may be aged and decayed and apparently useless, a leftover from a previous summer’s growth.

He knows what He is doing.

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.

John 15:1-3, New King James Version