Freesia

Also known as: Freesia, Common freesia

Freesia refracta is a bulbous perennial with narrow, sword-shaped leaves and fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of white, cream, yellow, or pink. The flowers are borne on slender, arching stems in a one-sided spike, blooming in late spring to early summer. It has a graceful, upright habit and is highly valued for its sweet scent and long-lasting cut flowers.

Scientific classification

Species: Freesia (Freesia refracta)
Genus: Information to be completed
Family: Iridaceae

Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Toxicity: Bulbs · Perennial · Bedding
Plant type: 0.3 - 0.6 metres
Height: 0.1 - 0.3 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Upright · Clump forming
Habit: Spring · Summer
Season of interest: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 10 – 20 °C
Ideal temperature

Freesia pictures

Distribution of Freesia

Distribution map

South Africa (Cape Province)

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Quick identification of Freesia

Information to be completed

Freesia care guide

Keep soil moist during active growth, allow to dry slightly after flowering
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 10 – 20 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep soil moist during active growth, allow to dry slightly after flowering

Fertilizing

Every 2 weeks during growing season

Pruning

Remove spent flower stems after blooming to encourage bulb development. Cut back foliage only after it has turned yellow and died down naturally.

Propagation

Propagate by separating offsets (daughter corms) from the parent corm in autumn or early spring, planting them immediately. Alternatively, sow seeds in spring at 18-20°C; seedlings take 2-3 years to reach flowering size.

Growing

Plant corms in autumn or early spring in a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil. Water freely during growth and flowering, but reduce watering after blooming as the foliage dies back. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. In cold regions, lift corms and store frost-free over winter, or grow in containers that can be moved indoors. Avoid waterlogging to prevent corm rot.

More growing and care information →