Freesia refracta
TAXONOMY
FamilyIridaceae
GenusFreesia
Zone9
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Freesia refracta, commonly known as freesia, is a tuberous geophyte in the family Iridaceae. Native to South Africa, it is well-known for its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors. Freesias are popular in gardens and as cut flowers. They thrive in subtropical climates and have a dormancy period during which the corms should be kept dry.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Gladiolus Refractus
Gladiolus Resupinatus
Montbretia Odorata
Waitzia Odorata
Freesia
Freesia hurlingii
Gladiolus refracta
Montbretia refracta
Nymanina refracta
Tritonia refracta
Waitzia refracta
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Freesias require bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. They prefer a humid environment but can tolerate average household humidity levels. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.Soil
Freesias prefer well-draining loam soil. A mix of garden soil, sand, and compost works well. Ensure the soil is kept moderately moist but not waterlogged, as the corms can rot in overly wet conditions.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot freesia corms every year after the dormancy period. Remove the old corms and plant new ones in fresh soil. Ensure the new pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.Propagation
Freesias can be propagated by dividing the corms. After the flowering season, dig up the corms, separate the offsets, and replant them. This is best done during the dormancy period.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for freesias. However, you can remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage new growth.Toxicity
Freesias are non-toxic to pets and humans, making them a safe choice for households with animals and children.Additional
Freesias are sensitive to frost, so if you live in a cooler climate, consider growing them in pots that can be moved indoors during cold weather. They also benefit from a period of dormancy, during which watering should be reduced.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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