Family: Iridaceae
Common Name: Peacock Flower, Tiger Flower

Native to Mexico and Guatemala, this genus consists of over 20 species of bulbs. They have somewhat grassy or sword-like foliage and highly colourful, six-petalled flowers in summer. There are three long petals and three short ones. Individual flowers do not last long but are produced in succession over a long period. Tigridias are frost-tender, so in frost-prone cli­mates grow them in a cool greenhouse or out-doors for the summer; lift them in autumn and store dry over winter in a frost-free greenhouse.

Species

T. pavonia, from Mexico, grows to 60 cm (24 in), sometimes with branching stems. The fairly stiff, sword-shaped leaves are 45 cm (18 in) long and similar to those of gladiolus. The flowers are in various colours, including red, orange, pink, yellow or white, and are usually boldly marked with contrasting colours in the centre. The flower is 15 cm (6 in) in diameter. There are many cultivars of different colours available. Each flower lasts only one day, but there is a succession of blooms over a long period.

Cultivation

Plant bulbs in spring, about 10 cm (4 in) deep. In the greenhouse, grow in pots of gritty, soil-based potting compost and provide maximum light. Dry off in winter when they are dormant. In the garden, grow in very well-drained, sandy soil in a sunny position.

Climate

Zone 10.