Tigridia
Tigridia pavonia (and other spp.)
Tigridia is a flamboyant Mexican native bulb producing short-lived but breathtakingly vivid triangular blooms in fiery reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows with dramatically spotted centers. It symbolizes boldness, passion, and the fleeting nature of beauty.
Iridaceae (Iris family)
Summer (July–September); each individual flower lasts only one day, but bulbs produce a succession of blooms
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: kniphofias and red hot pokers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Tigridia pavonia has deep roots in Mexican culture stretching back to the Aztec civilization, where the bulbs were cultivated both as food and for ceremonial purposes. The flower's Spanish name "Flor de Tigre" (Tiger Flower) and its dramatic spotted center have long made it a symbol of fierce beauty and wild energy. In the Victorian language of flowers, the tiger flower was associated with boldness and daring — a fitting tribute to a bloom that burns brilliantly for just a single day. This ephemeral quality also gave it associations with the preciousness of transient beauty, similar to the Japanese concept of mono no aware.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering and strong stems
Water
Moderate watering during active growth; reduce water as foliage dies back; bulbs must stay dry during winter storage in cold climates
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy to loamy, Average fertility, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs in spring after the last frost, 2–4 inches deep in well-drained soil
In cold climates (below zone 7), lift bulbs after the first frost and store dry over winter
Plant in groups of 5 or more for a bold visual effect
Each flower lasts only one day — plant in succession or in large groups to maximize display
Avoid overwatering, especially in heavy soils; bulbs rot easily in wet conditions
Excellent companion for dahlias, gladiolus, and cannas in a summer exotic border
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Summer border specimen for dramatic color
- Mixed tropical and exotic-themed garden plantings
- Cut flowers — vivid and eye-catching, though short-lived
- Container plantings for patios and terraces
- Succession planting for a continuous summer display
Traditional Uses
- The bulbs (corms) of Tigridia pavonia were eaten by Aztec and other Indigenous Mexican peoples as a food source, cooked similarly to potatoes
- Used in traditional Mexican folk medicine for stomach ailments and as a mild anti-inflammatory
- No significant modern clinical use
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tigridia
What is tigridia commonly called?
Tigridia is most widely known as Tiger Flower or Mexican Shell Flower. Other common names include Peacock Flower and One-Day Lily — the latter reflecting the fact that each individual flower blooms for just a single day before fading.
How long do tigridia flowers last?
Each individual Tigridia flower lasts only one day, opening in the morning and closing by evening. However, each bulb produces multiple buds that open in succession over several weeks, and planting in groups creates a long-lasting summer display.
What does tigridia symbolize?
Tigridia symbolizes boldness, passion, and the fierce beauty of fleeting moments. Its dramatic, short-lived blooms carry a message of daring and courageous love — a reminder to embrace brilliant experiences fully, even if they are brief.
Is tigridia easy to grow?
Yes, Tigridia is relatively easy to grow in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant bulbs in spring after the last frost and water moderately. In cold climates, lift the bulbs after the first autumn frost and store them dry indoors over winter, similar to dahlias or gladiolus.
Is tigridia edible?
Yes — the bulbs of Tigridia pavonia were eaten by Aztec and other Indigenous Mexican peoples, cooked in ways similar to potatoes. However, the plant is not commonly cultivated for food today and is grown almost exclusively as an ornamental.
When does tigridia bloom?
Tigridia blooms in summer, typically from July through September. Planting bulbs in succession a few weeks apart extends the display further into the season, ensuring a continuous parade of vivid one-day blooms.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Kniphofia
Kniphofia uvaria and other spp.
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Kniphofia uvaria
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Dianthus spp. (D. caryophyllus, D. barbatus)
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