Contents
Description
Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is a stunning flowering plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the family Iridaceae and is commonly known as Mexican shell flower, tiger flower, or jockey’s cap. The plant gets its name from its unique shell-like flowers that bloom in summer and fall. Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60cm tall and 30cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Tigridia |
Appearance
Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea has beautiful flowers that are 8-15cm wide and come in shades of pink, purple, and lavender. The flowers have three petals and three sepals, with a showy central stamen. The leaves are sword-shaped and grow up to 30cm long. The plant has a bulbous root system that is easy to grow in pots or in the ground.
Care Guide
Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is an easy plant to care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Plant the bulbs in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Sunlight: Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Plant the bulbs in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Hardiness Zones: Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder climates, the bulbs can be lifted and stored indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant material and treat with a fungicide.
- Thrips: These small insects can cause damage to the flowers and leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control thrips.
- Bulb Rot: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs to rot. Plant the bulbs in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
Habitat
Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open fields and meadows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is a popular garden plant and is widely grown as an ornamental in temperate regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can I grow Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea in a pot?
A: Yes, Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea is easy to grow in pots or in the ground.
Q: When should I plant Tigridia Pavonia Lilacea bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the spring after the last frost date, or in the fall before the first frost date.
Related Plants
- Tigridia Conchiflora
- Tigridia Multiflora
- Tigridia Grandiflora
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/tiger-flower/growing-tiger-flowers.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/tigridia-pavonia-lilacea
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/bulb/tiger-flower/
