How and When to Plant Tigridia Bulbs
If you’re looking to add bold, tropical flair to your summer garden, Tigridia - the Tiger Flower, is an excellent choice.
With their exotic, brightly speckled blooms and vibrant colours, they make a dramatic statement in borders and containers alike.
Here’s a complete guide to planting and caring for Tigridia bulbs — including timing, soil preparation, and aftercare for reliable summer flowers.
What Are Tigridia?
Tigridia pavonia is a tender summer-flowering bulb native to Mexico. Each bloom lasts just one day — but don’t worry! Established plants produce multiple buds over several weeks, creating a succession of dramatic flowers in shades of red, pink, yellow, orange and white, often with beautifully spotted centres.
In the UK climate, Tigridia are treated as half-hardy bulbs, meaning they need protection from frost.
When to Plant Tigridia Bulbs in the UK
Timing is crucial for success.
Outdoors
Plant bulbs from late April to May, once:
• The risk of frost has passed
• Soil has warmed to at least 10°C
• Ground is not waterlogged
In most parts of the UK, mid-May is safest. In milder southern areas, late April can work during warmer springs.
Starting Indoors (Recommended for Earlier Flowers)
You can plant bulbs in pots indoors from March onwards and move them outside once frosts have passed.
This gives:
• Earlier flowering (from July)
• Better protection from spring cold snaps
• Stronger, more reliable plants
Where to Plant Tigridia
Tigridia thrive in conditions similar to other tender summer bulbs.
☀️ Position
Full sun (at least 6 hours daily)
Sheltered from strong winds
Warm, south-facing beds are ideal
ðŋ Soil
Well-drained soil is essential
Light sandy or loamy soil works best
Avoid heavy clay unless improved with grit
If planting in containers, use:
Multi-purpose compost
Added horticultural grit for drainage
How to Plant Tigridia Bulbs
ðž In Garden Borders
Prepare the soil – Loosen to about 20cm deep and mix in compost.
Plant depth – 8–10cm deep.
Spacing – 10–15cm apart.
Water lightly after planting.
Tip: Plant in clusters for the best visual impact — single plants can look sparse.
ðŠī In Containers
Choose a pot with good drainage holes.
Add crocks or gravel at the base.
Fill with compost mixed with grit.
Plant 5–7 bulbs in a 25cm pot.
Water sparingly until growth appears.
Container growing is ideal in cooler UK regions, as pots can be moved under cover if temperatures drop.
Caring for Tigridia Through Summer
Once planted, Tigridia are relatively low-maintenance.
ð§ Watering
Keep soil moist but never soggy.
You can increase watering during dry spells if the plant is established.
ðļ Feeding
Apply a high-potash liquid feed every 2–3 weeks once flowering begins.
ðš Flowering Time
Expect blooms from July to September, depending on planting time.
What to Do in Autumn (Overwintering in the UK)
Because Tigridia are not frost hardy:
Option 1: Lift and Store (Recommended)
Allow foliage to die back naturally.
Lift bulbs before the first frost.
Dry for a few days.
Store in dry peat or paper bags in a cool, frost-free place (5–10°C).
Option 2: Leave in Ground (Mild Areas Only)
In very mild parts of southern England:
Apply a thick mulch (10–15cm).
Ensure soil is very well drained.
However, lifting is far more reliable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Planting too early in cold soil
❌ Letting bulbs sit in waterlogged ground
❌ Forgetting to lift before frost
❌ Planting too shallow (can cause flopping)
Tigridia may not be the most widely grown bulb in UK gardens, but they reward gardeners with some of the most exotic-looking flowers you can grow outdoors.
Plant them in late spring, give them warmth and good drainage, and you’ll enjoy a parade of striking blooms throughout summer.
If you love unusual, eye-catching plants that spark conversation, Tigridia deserve a spot in your garden this year. They can also make an excellent choice as indoor plants in sunny positions too.