Freesia: Characteristics & Cultivation

Freesia is a genus of herbaceous perennial flowering plants in the family Iridaceae, first described as a genus in 1866 by Christian Friedrich Ecklon (1886) and named after the German botanist and medical practitioner, Friedrich Freese (1795–1876). It is native to the eastern side of southern Africa, from Kenya south to South Africa, most species being found in Cape Provinces.

The plants usually called “freesias” in horticulture and floristry are derived from crosses made in the 19th century between Freesia refracta and Freesia leichtlinii. Numerous cultivars have been bred from these species and the pink- and yellow-flowered forms of Freesia corymbosa. Modern tetraploid cultivars have flowers ranging from white to yellow, pink, red and blue-mauve. They are mostly cultivated professionally in the Netherlands by about 80 growers

They are perennial cormous plants, although in colder climates, they’re often treated as annuals. Freesias grow from corms, which are bulb-like structures. Plants typically grow to 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall. The leaves are narrow, sword-shaped, and grow in a fan-like arrangement from the base of the plant. They are usually green but can vary in intensity.

Flower Characteristics

  • Bloom Shape: Freesias have trumpet-shaped flowers, which are borne on one side of an arching stem. Each stem can carry up to 12 flowers.
  • Colors: Freesias come in a wide array of colors including white, yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and blue, with many shades in between. Some varieties are bi-colored or have a contrasting throat color.
  • Fragrance: One of the most notable characteristics is their sweet, strong fragrance, which makes them popular in perfumery.
  • Scent: The scent of Freesias is often described as sweet, slightly spicy, and reminiscent of honeysuckle or jasmine.

Cultivation

Climate and Planting:

  • Zones: Freesias do best in USDA hardiness zones 9-10 where they can be perennials. In cooler zones, they are grown annually.
  • Planting Time: In warm climates, plant in autumn for spring blooming. In colder areas, start corms indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, or plant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

Soil: They prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH slightly on the acidic side. A mix of loam, sand, and organic matter works well.

Light: Full sun to partial shade. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily but can benefit from some afternoon shade in hotter climates.

Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. After blooming, reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back.

Temperature: Freesias thrive in temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C) during the day, with cooler nights being beneficial for flower development.

Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and then a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing period. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Planting Depth & Spacing: Plant corms 2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart. The pointed end should face upward.

Care After Blooming: After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally before lifting the corms if you’re in a region where they won’t survive the winter outdoors. Store corms in a cool, dry place until next planting season.

Propagation: New corms form at the base of the old ones. These can be separated and planted to grow new plants. Ensure the corms are firm and free from rot before replanting.

Pests and Diseases

  • Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
  • Diseases: Freesias can be susceptible to botrytis (gray mold) in overly damp conditions, and corm rot if left in wet soil. Good air circulation and proper watering practices are key to prevention.

Special Tips

  • Forcing: Freesias can be forced into bloom by chilling the corms at 40-45°F (4-7°C) for several weeks before planting.
  • Cut Flowers: They make excellent cut flowers with a long vase life, especially if cut when the lower flowers are just beginning to open.