Tigridia pavonia 'Speciosa' produces large scarlet flowers, up to 15cm in diameter, with a yellow-red spotted throat. The blooms appear on sturdy stems and create a striking display in sunny garden borders.

Also known as the Mexican shell flower or peacock tiger flower, this clump-forming plant reaches up to 45cm in height with a spread of 15cm. It performs best in sunny, well-drained soil.

Do you want vibrant summer flowers with unusual markings? Tigridia pavonia 'Speciosa' offers bold colour and exotic charm with relatively simple care.

Key Features

• Botanical name: Tigridia pavonia 'Speciosa'
• Common names: Peacock tiger flower 'Speciosa', Mexican shell flower
• Plant type: Bulbous perennial
• Flower colour: Scarlet with yellow-red spotted throat
• Flower diameter: 15cm
• Flowering period: Summer
• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Height: Up to 45cm
• Spread: Up to 15cm

Benefits for UK Wildlife

• Flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
• Dense foliage provides shelter for small insects.
• Bright summer blooms extend nectar sources in wildlife-friendly borders.

Planting Tips

• Plant bulbs 6cm deep and 9–15cm apart in spring.
• Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-draining soil.
• Water lightly until growth appears, then maintain moderate moisture.
• Fertilise occasionally during the growing season to encourage blooms.
• Lift bulbs in colder regions after the foliage dies back, or provide frost protection.

Grow Tigridia pavonia 'Speciosa' in sunny borders or containers for a vivid summer display. Its scarlet flowers with spotted throats make it a standout plant in any garden.