Mexican Shell Flower, Jockey's Cap Lily, Peacock Flower, Tiger Flower
| When to Plant: | |
| Spring |
| Blooms: | |
| Summer |
| Light Requirements: | |
| Full Sun |
| Plant Height: | ||
| 12-18" | ||
| Hardiness Zones: | |
| Grow as Perennial in zones 8-10. Grow as Annual elsewhere. Find Your Zone |
| Planting Depth: | |
| 2-3" |
| Plant Spacing: | |
| 4-6" |
| Plant Type: | |
| Corm |
Tigridia is also known as Mexican Shell Flower since it is mainly found in Mexico and Guatemala. The roots of the plant are said to have a chestnut flavor and were traditionally eaten by the Aztecs.
Tigridia produces exotic, showy, triangle-shaped blooms in shades of red, white, pink, orange and yellow with speckled centers that are said to resemble a tiger's coat or seashell. Its foliage consists of fans of lance-shaped leaves and dies back in the fall.
Plant in a full sun location.
Tigridia loves soil that is rich, porous and drains well but still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of soil amendment if needed, add fertilizer and incorporate into the soil to a depth of 10 inches.
Plant in groups with corms spaced 4-6" apart for the best show. Tigridia corms should be planted 2-3" deep. Water thoroughly at planting. Water regularly while growing and in bloom so that water will reach the roots. Mulch to keep the soil cool and to prevent the soil from drying out.
Dig, dry, clean and store in a dry, cool place at 40-50ºF to over winter in non-hardy zones.
Tigridia loves hot afternoon sunlight.
Plant in groups of 7 or more for the best show of blooms.
