Tigridia pavonia Mix

Tigridia pavonia, also known as peacock tiger flower or tiger flower, is a bulbous plant appreciated for its large, brightly coloured triangular flowers, which have a highly exotic appearance. Adorned with a purple tiger-striped throat, they display different colours such as red, bright pink, purple, orange, yellow, or white, depending on the plants that make up this mixture. Each flower lasts only one day, but they succeed each other on the plants for two months. The foliage is composed of large sword-shaped leaves that unfold in a fan shape. This bulbous plant is not very hardy. It should only be grown outside in the mildest climates. It requires full light, and light, rather moist but well-drained soil. Tigridia makes beautiful flowering pots for patios and balconies. The pots can be overwintered in a greenhouse or conservatory.

Tigridia pavonia is native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Peru. This bulbous plant is a relative of the garden iris, both belonging to the Iridaceae family. In spring, it forms a clump of dark green, sword-shaped, veined and pleated leaves, measuring 20 to 50cm (8 to 20in) long, grouped in a basal fan. Once established, its growth is rapid. Flowering takes place in summer and lasts for several weeks in July-August. Flower stems emerge at a height of 45cm (18in), bearing one to three leaves and 4 to 10 flowers, 10cm (4in) in diameter. The blooms only live for one day, but succeed each other. The fascinating and intriguing flowers are composed of three large triangular petals, and three other tiny ones that are strangely speckled in purple or dark brown, just like the heart. The bulbs of this plant are edible. They produce bulblets that bloom in two years.

It is possible to leave the bulbs in the ground during the resting period in winter, if grown in protected borders where frosts are mild. Elsewhere, tigridias are perfect for growing in large pots that can be brought indoors during winter. These plants ruled Victorian gardens in the 19th century. Choose a clear, sunny, and sheltered spot for them. Plant them directly in pure sand as their hardiness will be even better. Plant Tigridia pavonia in groups, at the edge of an exotic border, alongside catmints, galtonia, Amaryllis belladonna, alstroemerias, and crinums. They also work well with ageratum and agapanthus. Its flowers will be magnificent in exotic bouquets.