Freesia

Freesia

Freesia is known for its sweet scent and long vase life. Many adore this flower for its solid colours. Not only is it a popular flower for bouquets but as garden plants as well. Learn more about freesia below.

Scientific name

Freesia is the scientific name of the perennial blooming plant that is also known as freesia. It is a genus in the Iridaceae family and is known worldwide for its bell- or funnel-shaped flowers. 

Freesia is a scented plant with its fragrance used for manufacturing scented lotions, soaps, candles, and perfumes. Aside from its scent, the flower is popular for its blooms that come in different hues, including red, pink, blue-mauve, yellow, or white. 

Origin and History

Freesias originated in South Africa, where several species can be found in the Cape Province. That it came from the Cape Province is why the flowers are also called “Cape lily-of-the-valley.”

The name “freesia,” however, came from the German physician Frederick Freese. It was botanist Ecklon, collector of plants from South Africa, who named the flower after his friend Freese in 1830.

Botanists found freesias in England in 1878, and after a few years, they made their way to the United States. For years, botanists cultivated the freesias that lead to it being found in countries worldwide and the fact it now comes in different colours. 

Symbolisms and Arrangements

Artists and gardeners love freesia for its striking colours, prominent beauty, and sweet scent. Often used as wedding bouquets, garden plants, and vase plants, the blooms are a perfect gift to mark a couple’s 7th wedding anniversary.

The flower signifies friendship, innocence, trust, thoughtfulness, sweetness, and trust. Freesias’ unique flower cut makes them great blooms to use in all kinds of flowering arrangements, adding its charm to any floral gift.

How to Take Care of Freesia Plant

Taking care of the freesia plant involves keeping its soil damp. It would be better to put enough fertilizer into it before its growing period. You also need to divide them at least once every three years since freesias can produce several blooms in one arching stem.