Contents
Description
Tigridia Dugesii, also known as Mexican shellflower, is a stunning bulb plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. The plant is characterized by its large, showy flowers that come in a range of vibrant colors, including red, orange, yellow, and white. Each flower lasts for only a day, but the plant produces a succession of blooms throughout the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Tigridia |
Appearance
The Tigridia Dugesii plant grows up to 24 inches tall and has long, sword-shaped leaves that are green in color. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 4 inches across, and come in a range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and white. Each flower has three petals that are marked with dark spots or blotches. The flowers bloom for only a day, but the plant produces a succession of blooms throughout the summer months.
Care Guide
Tigridia Dugesii is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering during the growing season, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tigridia Dugesii is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Tigridia Dugesii is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These pests cause stunted growth and distorted flowers. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Bulb rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage and can cause the bulbs to rot. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Tigridia Dugesii is native to Mexico and Central America and is found growing in a range of habitats, including forests, meadows, and hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Tigridia Dugesii?
A: The plant needs regular watering during the growing season, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Tigridia Dugesii?
A: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
Q: What hardiness zones is Tigridia Dugesii suitable for?
A: Tigridia Dugesii is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: What are the most common pests and diseases that affect Tigridia Dugesii?
A: The most common pests and diseases that affect Tigridia Dugesii include spider mites, thrips, and bulb rot.
Related Plants
- Tigridia Pavonia
- Tigridia Grandiflora
- Tigridia Conchiflora
References
- “Tigridia Dugesii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j140
- “Tigridia Dugesii.” Plant Delights Nursery. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/tigridia-dugesii
- “Tigridia Dugesii.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3844
