Tigridia pavonia is one of the most popular ornamental flowers in the Americas.
Unfortunately, these popular flowers can be trickier than some other bulbs, especially for newcomers.
Once you figure them out, you’ll have no problem growing some incredible plants!
If you want to learn more or grow some glorious blooms for yourself, look no further.
You’ll find everything you need to grow these unique plants and enjoy their marvelous blooms successfully.
Where Does Tigridia Pavonia Come From?
This bulbous iris originated in the Americas. It is widely found throughout Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, while also being naturalized in Peru and Ecuador.
It has been cultivated since at least the 18th century.
Tigridia pavonia is known by a number of names.
The Latin name Tigridia comes from the word for tiger, reflecting the blossoms’ spotted appearance.
This references the jaguar or spotted South American tiger, not the striped Asian tiger.
In addition, Pavonia means peacock, referring to the entire flower’s peacock feather-like appearance.
What the plant is called tends to be regional. Among the most common nicknames given to this flower are:
- Mexican shell flower
- Tiger iris or tiger flower
- Peacock flower
- Jockey’s cap lily
Quick Facts On Tigridia Pavonia
- Family: Iridaceae
- Light: Partial to full sun
- Temperature: Cool soil is a must for blooming, so avoid overheating.
- Water: Water generously during the growing season.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
- Propagation: Sowing seeds
- Common Problems: Iris aphids, mites, fungus
Tigridia Pavonia Care
How Big Do Tigridia Plants Grow?
Most plants in the genus Tigridia are seldom grown because of their smaller blooms and persnickety nature.
However, Tigridia pavonia is an exception, being a bit easier to grow and having the largest blooms in the genus.
This plant’s flower petals typically extend four or five inches and boast powerful colors arranged in splendid patterns.
Tigridia pavonia can range in size from 1′ to 2′ feet tall. Stems are the bulk of this height, with some accompanying narrow, pleated leaves.
When Does Tigridia Plant Bloom? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
You should see blooms after the first Tigridia pavonia’s flowers bloom for only one day. They open in the early morning to greet the sun and close before night arrives. This leads to a succession of six-petaled blooms throughout the growing season, one after another.
Each flower stem makes four to six blooms each. When planted together, tigridia pavonia makes quite an evocative ornamental statement.
Clusters of flowers alternate opening and closing for a brilliant display of color and pattern. This lasts between 4 and 6 weeks.
These large, colorful flowers give off very little fragrance. Instead, their charm and beauty come from their striking, exotic appearance.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Tigridia pavonia prefers to be planted in full sun without being overheated or unprotected. So they aren’t necessarily fragile plants but have rigid temperature boundaries.
You’ll know your plant has been overheated if it has long stems without any flower buds.
This is easy to prevent for indoor plants by shielding pots, especially in south-facing windows.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Tigridia Pavonia?
Water your tigridia pavonia deeply and regularly during the early growing months.
Fertilization needs are higher in the early spring and taper off as the season progresses.
Feeding every 2 weeks at the height of growth should be adequate.
If flowers begin to wither without opening, your plant’s soil is probably drying out. However, overwatering is a possibility.
Your plant’s leaf tips will turn yellow if the soil is too wet. Therefore, ensure soil is never left soggy or over-saturated for prolonged periods.
What Is The Best Soil For Tigridia Flower And When Should You Transplant?
These flowers prefer loose, sandy soil that is well-fertilized and stays cool. Prevent their soil from overheating as this prevents blooming. You can use regular potting soil mixed with sand for great results.
Here’s what to do:
- Plant bulbs five to 6 per 6-inch pot.
- Make sure there is good drainage in the pot’s base.
- Plant bulbs 2″ or 3″ inches deep.
- Once the leaves wither after flowering, remove bulbs to let them dry.
- Dry them quickly in a place with good air circulation.
- Remove their withered leaves entirely once dried.
- Then move them to a slightly warmer area to dry further.
- Store them in dry sphagnum between 40° and 50° degrees Fahrenheit over the winter.
Does Tigridia Pavonia Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Tigridia pavonia doesn’t require any special grooming or maintenance. These are low-maintenance plants that don’t make too much of a fuss.
As long as you bring the bulbs inside to overwinter if temperatures drop below 41° degrees Fahrenheit, they’ll do just fine.
Keep bulbs in a cool, dry place until ready to replant.
How To Propagate Tiger Iris Flowers?
The propagation of tigridia pavonia is quite simple. You can use either seeds or the new bulbs naturally produced by your plants.
Tiger flowers live for a few years with proper care and typically propagate themselves annually.
This makes it simple for growers to produce more beautiful blossoms for their gardens.
Make sure to use the biggest bulbs for propagation for the best outcome.
Mexican Shell Flower Pests And Diseases
Aphis newtoni, commonly known as the iris aphid, is a major potential pest for tigridia pavonia.
These insects feed on low stalks and eventually young flowers and stems.
This makes them a notorious enemy for shell flower growers.
They typically hatch in April after overwintering on plants, with numbers increasing in mid to late summer.
Fungus can also be a concern. For example, if your shell flower’s leaves begin to wither and narrow at the base, that indicates a fungal infection.
Discard affected plants and spray any others with a fungicide to prevent spread.
Mites are indicated by yellow stippling on your plant’s leaves. Miticide should be applied to eliminate any infestation.
Is The Tigridia Plant Considered Poisonous To Humans Or Animals?
Tigridia pavonia is not poisonous to humans. The bulbs themselves are edible when cooked
In fact, various Native American tribes and Indigenous Mexicans have long roasted and eaten the plant’s bulbs.
Many people compare their flavor to that of roasted chestnuts.
Is the Tigridia Pavonia Plant Considered Invasive?
Tigridia pavonia isn’t considered invasive. It does not grow well in overly cold or hot environments, making it tough for the plant to invade outside its habitats.
Suggested Uses For Tiger Iris Flowers
Tiger flowers are beautiful ornamental flowers that are popular in gardens around the world.
Their bulbs are edible when cooked so they can be prepared according to numerous recipes.