Freesia
Freesias are characterized with upward-facing blossoms in bright colors and by adding a citrusy perfume to the air. Each freesia stem produces five to 10 tubular flowers, all of which grow on only one side of the stem. Double-flowered hybrids provide an even showier display. The stems turn at right angles just below the lowest flower, which results in blossoms that face the sky. This characteristic makes freesia wonderful for arrangements. Freesias are bulb flowers and while they are spring blooming in their native environment, they are available year-round. They come in white, pink, yellow, red, orange, and purple.
Family: Iridaceae
Species: Freesia spp.
Origin: South Africa
Symbolizes: Friendship, trust, thoughtfulness and innocence.
Also Known As: Freesias, Bergunden freesia or Ballerina
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38F (1-3C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality, avoid fluoridated and softened water.
Vase Life: 4-12 days
What to Look for When Purchasing
When selecting Freesia, avoid stems with florets that easily fall off, or stems with florets that are brown, shriveled or transparent. If stems are harvested too green, all the buds may not open. Choose stems with the first bud almost fully developed, but not open, and the remaining buds showing color.
Foam Info
Performs well
Design Tips
Their delicate appearance and beautiful fragrance make Freesia a firm favorite for bridal bouquets and prom season. Use freesia as an accent flower or in groupings. Because seven or more funnel-shaped blooms open along one side of the stem, they are easy to arrange to show off their beauty.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Moderate - ethylene promotes bud drop and petal transparency.
Pest & Disease Information
Flowers open too soon, or not at all. This can be largely due to incorrect cut stage and/or incorrect temperature control during storage. Petal shatter, color fade, and translucent petals due to ethylene damage. Sensitive to desiccation – not tolerant of dry shipping and storage.
Troubleshooting
Some varieties are ethylene sensitive which result in bud drop. These varieties should be treated with an ethylene action inhibitor before they leave the grower. Freesias are sensitive to fluoride which causes tip burn of foliage. Avoid fluoridated water. Sensitive to leaf yellowing, consider treating with a specialty bulb flower food.
Resources
Product Usage
For optimal care of Freesia, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.