Freesia Refracta

Description

Freesia Refracta, commonly known as Freesia, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and was first discovered by botanist Christian P. Ecklon in 1866. Freesia is a popular ornamental plant due to its fragrant and colourful blooms that range from pink, white, yellow, orange, red, and purple. The plant can grow up to 12-18 inches tall and 6-12 inches wide, making it an ideal choice for borders, pots, and cut flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Freesia Refracta has linear leaves that are dark green in colour and grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces a spike of 5-10 funnel-shaped flowers that have a diameter of 1-2 inches. Each flower has six petals that are arranged in a single plane and a nectar spur at the base. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom in spring and summer. Freesia is available in many colours, and the blooms can be single or double-flowered.

Care Guide

Freesia Refracta is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Freesia:

• Water: Freesia prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Feed Freesia with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
• Soil: Freesia grows well in fertile, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
• Sunlight: Freesia prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Plant the bulbs in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Freesia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder zones, grow Freesia as an annual or dig up the bulbs and store them indoors during winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Freesia Refracta is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues that may affect the plant:

• Thrips: These tiny insects can cause leaf and flower damage. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control thrips.
• Fusarium Crown Rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Control the disease by removing infected plants and avoiding overwatering.
• Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause flower and leaf blight. Control the disease by removing infected plant parts and improving air circulation.

Habitat

Freesia Refracta is native to southern Africa, where it grows in grasslands, scrublands, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. Freesia can be grown in pots, borders, and rock gardens in a variety of growing conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: How long do Freesia flowers last?

A: Freesia flowers can last up to 10 days when the plant is grown in optimal conditions. However, the blooms may fade faster in hot or windy weather.

Q: Can Freesia be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Freesia can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. However, the plant may not bloom as profusely as it would outdoors.

Q: Can Freesia bulbs be divided?

A: Yes, Freesia bulbs can be divided in early spring or fall. Use a sharp knife to cut the bulbs into sections that have at least one growing point each. Replant the sections in fresh soil.

Q: How do I deadhead Freesia?

A: To deadhead Freesia, wait until the flowers have faded and the petals have fallen off. Cut the flower stalks back to the base of the plant, taking care not to damage the leaves.

Related Plants

• Iris
• Crocus
• Narcissus
• Tulipa
• Hyacinth

References

• “Freesia Refracta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
• “Freesia.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk.
• “Freesia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. edis.ifas.ufl.edu.