Freesia (Freesia marginata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Freesia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Iridaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Freesia
Freesia marginata, known as Breede Valley Kammetjie, is a small perennial geophyte endemic to the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It produces fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, usually pure white with yellow or purple markings on the lower petals, blooming in spring. Its delicate beauty makes it ideal for pots, rockeries, or as part of a native plant garden.
Native range
South Africa (Western Cape Province)
Care tips
It requires full sun to light semi-shade exposure and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or loamy. Water generously during the growing and flowering season, but drastically reduce watering once the foliage begins to yellow, allowing the corms to rest in dry soil during summer. Avoid overwatering during its dormancy period to prevent corm rot.
How to save a dying Freesia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or soft leaves, drooping stems, no bloom or premature wilting.
- First aid
- Check soil: if waterlogged, remove bulb and let it dry. If dry, water moderately. Move to indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing bulb rot; inadequate light or extreme temperatures.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb isn't completely rotted. Act quickly at first symptom.