Also known as Common Freesia · De Rust Freesia · Freesia
Freesia refracta is a fragrant bulbous perennial native to South Africa, known for its arching stems and delicate, trumpet-shaped flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but can tolerate some afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Consistent moisture during growth, dry during dormancy
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during active growth. Reduce significantly as foliage yellows.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Mild to warm
50% intensity
Ideal growing temperatures are between 15-20°C during the day. Tolerates cooler temperatures at night. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during active growth and flowering.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging.
Reduce watering significantly once the foliage begins to yellow and die back after flowering, allowing the corms to dry out for dormancy. Water again when new growth emerges in autumn or spring.
Remove spent flower stalks as they fade to encourage further blooming and prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. Once the foliage has naturally yellowed and died back completely after the growing season, trim it away at the soil line to tidy the plant.
Freesia refracta is primarily propagated by dividing the corms. After the foliage has died back, carefully lift the corms from the soil.
Separate any offsets that have formed, ensuring each piece has at least one dormant bud. Replant them in autumn or spring.
Repot Freesia refracta corms every 2-3 years or when the pot becomes overcrowded. This is best done in late summer or early autumn before new growth starts.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the new pot provides adequate space for corms to multiply.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Freesia Refracta (Freesia refracta)
Where Freesia Refracta (Freesia refracta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Freesia |
| Species | Freesia refracta |
Similar in genus Freesia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
