Tigridia pavonia Lilacea (Tiger Flower)

Tigridia pavonia 'Lilacea' (Tiger Flower) is a tender bulbous perennial with striking flowers adorned with three large, vibrant purple outer petals and a central cluster of three smaller petals covered with red speckles. Similarly to daylilies, the delicate flowers of Tigridia bloom for only a single day. But, as each plant produces an abundance of stems, the flowering period, in reality, lasts several weeks from mid to late summer. Each eye-catching blossom rides atop a slender stem and upright blade-shaped leaves. Easy to grow, Tigridia 'Lilacea' is perfect for borders and containers.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm). Tigridia grows from bulbs that produce offsets, eventually forming large clumps. They should be divided every three years or so to maintain a relatively compact clump.
• Performs best in full sun and well-drained soils. Tolerates part shade In hot climate area. Drought tolerant, deer and rabbit resistant.
• Tigridia excels in beds, borders and large containers where it brings exoticism and distinction. Plant it among low-growing flowering plants or groundcovers as their foliage is sparse and their stems thin and delicate. An added bonus: cut the first flowers back (six inches down the stem) and they should bloom again!
• Plant the corms about 3 in. deep (7 cm) and 5 in. apart (12 cm) and water well over the season. Then wait to see the look on the faces of your friends and neighbors. Few are likely to guess how easy they were to grow!
• Plant in spring in groups of minimum 3 bulbs for a striking display!
• Native to Mexico