Tiger Flower Iris
INFORMATION ABOUT TIGER FLOWER IRIS…
Image by Drew Avery The Tiger Flower Iris is a unique and beautiful flower. Its large exotic looking blooms are an amazing and eye-catching addition to any garden.
A member of the Iris family, the Tiger Flower Iris is known not only for its stunning beauty, but also for its distinctive and mysterious blooming pattern. Each bloom lasts for only one day, but each stalk will produce several flowers in succession. The Tiger Flower Iris will bloom for up to 6 weeks in mid summer, with a brilliant new bloom to look forward to each day or so.
A native of South America, the Tiger Flower Iris is one of thirty some odd species. It is also commonly called the Peacock Flower and the Mexican Shell Flower. Its latin name is Tigridia Pavonia.
Its flowers are nothing less than spectacular with their blooms of up to 6″ wide. They have a triangular shape with three large shallow cupped petals. Tiger Flower Iris blooms are known for their vibrant colors, and range from bright red, purple, yellow, and pink to cream, white, and peach. They all have a distinctive spotted pattern center.
The corms are best planted in late spring, and will flourish in sunny areas with soil that allows good drainage. Tiger Flower Iris corms should be planted three inches deep and will grow to be anywhere from 1.5 – 2″ tall. In warmer climates the corms can be left in the ground for the winter, but it is advisable to dig them up and store them in colder climates.
As with any corm, the secret to success with the Tiger Flower Iris is proper watering. Watering should occur right after planting and be followed by a good, hearty soaking every four to five days until the last of the foliage has died back in late autumn.
The Tiger Flower Iris is easily propagated near the end of summer when the seeds are ripe, but it is important to note that the plants grown from seed will not bloom until the second spring after sowing.
Rarely will you find such a startlingly dramatic flower with such an interesting parade of flowers. As quickly as one dies off, another breathtaking bloom is there to take its place. Highly recommended for all gardeners, the Tiger Flower Iris is truly “queen for a day”.