I live in Prestwich, Manchester (UK) and have become very interested in the botanical history of the area - particularly the Victorian botanist, John Horsefield. I got my first house and garden in 2022, and wanted to nod to his achievements by planting some of his hybrids.
I managed to obtain some of his Narcissus Horsfieldii from heritage bulb website Croft 16 and they're now happily blooming in my front garden, pride of place
He also raised a hybrid lily in his garden, Tigridia conchiflora. He was a handloom weaver, entirely self-taught in the field of botany and lived his whole life in poverty. Selling this hybrid was the only financial benefit to come from his interests. He sold it to Manchester nurseryman Thomas Watkinson for £10, and as such it doesn't carry his own name.
I've searched and searched, but I can't find his Tigridia conchiflora var. 'Watkinsoni' anywhere.
Does anyone know anything about the history of name changes with this lily? There's a picture on John Horsefield's Wikipedia page if it helps as reference. Did 'conchiflora' change to 'pavonia'? I'd really like to hear from anyone who knows about Tigridia and it's history, and can shine a light on this mystery.
I'm guessing 'conchiflora' means 'shell flower' as in the common name 'Mexican shellflower' but that's as close as I can get. Also interested if anyone knows of any reputable heritage bulb sellers in this area. Thanks!