LIFE CYCLE
Perennial
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
Bulbous
GROWTH HABIT
Upright
BLOOM SEASON
Summer
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Non-edible
SUITABLE FOR
Outdoor
SEED TYPE
Flower seeds
PLANT TYPE
Ornamental
PLANTING SEASON
Spring
FRUIT SIZE
N/A
PLANT HEIGHT
60–90 cm
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun
WATER NEEDS
Moderate
HARDINESS ZONES
8–11
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes
PLANT SPACING
30–40 cm
PLANTING DEPTH
1–2 cm
GROWING CONDITIONS
Well-drained
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do the flowers only last one day?
Why do the flowers only last one day?
Each individual Tigridia bloom is genuinely ephemeral, opening for just a single day before closing, though the bulb produces a continuous succession of new buds throughout the season for ongoing color.
Since this is sold as seed rather than bulbs, how long until it reaches flowering size?
Since this is sold as seed rather than bulbs, how long until it reaches flowering size?
Growing from true seed takes longer than starting from bulbs, so expect a longer wait before the plant matures enough to produce its first blooms.
Where does the "tiger flower" nickname come from?
Where does the "tiger flower" nickname come from?
The speckled, spotted markings at the center of the bloom resemble tiger or peacock patterning, giving rise to common names like "tiger flower" and "peacock flower."
Do I need to dig up and store the bulbs over winter in a colder climate?
Do I need to dig up and store the bulbs over winter in a colder climate?
Yes, outside zones 8–11, the bulbs are generally not winter-hardy in the ground and should be lifted and stored indoors, similar to gladiolus or dahlia bulbs.
The listing says "Non-edible," but I've read the bulbs were historically eaten — which is true?
The listing says "Non-edible," but I've read the bulbs were historically eaten — which is true?
Historically, Tigridia pavonia bulbs were eaten by Aztec peoples in Mexico, often roasted; however, this listing is intended for ornamental planting, and store-bought ornamental bulbs shouldn't be assumed safe or appropriate for consumption today.
Where does this plant naturally come from?
Where does this plant naturally come from?
It's native to the highlands of Mexico, which explains its preference for warm growing conditions and full sun.