Freesia (Freesia speciosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Freesia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Iridaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Freesia
Freesia speciosa, commonly known as Showy Kammetjie, is a bulbous species from the Iridaceae family, native to South Africa. It is distinguished by its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, which emerge in one-sided spikes and are typically white or cream, sometimes with pink or purple tinges. It is ideal for pots, garden borders, or as a cut flower, adding a touch of elegance and fragrance.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun to light partial shade for optimal flowering. Watering should be regular during growth and flowering, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and drastically reducing it once the leaves yellow. It prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter; a common mistake is overwatering during the dormant phase, which can lead to corm rot.
How to save a dying Freesia
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or soft leaves, drooping stems, no blooms, or rotten shoots.
- First aid
- Remove rotten bulbs, repot in fresh, well-draining soil, and drastically reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially during dormancy, causing bulb rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot isn't too advanced and watering is corrected immediately.