Care of the cormous plant Freesia alba or White freeesia |
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The genus Freesia, family Iridaceae, includes 15 species and numerous cultivars of corm plants native to South Africa. Some species are: Freesia alba, Freesia fucata, Freesia caryophyllacea, Freesia x hybrida, Freesia laxa, Freesia fergusoniae, Freesia grandiflora, Freesia refracta. Common name: White freeesia. Freesia alba is a herbaceous plant with corms that reaches 30 cm (0.98 feet) in height. The leaves, dark green in colour, are linear and erect. The attractive and fragrant flowers are bell-shaped and white with yellow spots. It blooms in spring and rests in summer. White freeesia is used in borders and flowerbeds, in rockeries and in pots for balconies, patios and terraces. It is ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Freesia alba prefers semi-shade exposure in climates with very hot summers and full sun in temperate climates. It does not like excessive cold or heat. The soil must be very well drained and quite light, for which coarse sand and coconut fibre can be added to normal garden soil. It is advisable to change the substrate every year if grown in a pot. Water twice a week during flowering, do not water in summer (the plant rests) and water once a week in autumn and winter. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer during the flowering period. Prune off wilted flowers and dry leaves. Freesia alba does not usually present serious problems with pests and diseases. White freeesia is easily propagated by dividing corms in autumn and from seeds, but it is a slow and complicated process. |
Images of the cormous plant Freesia alba or White freeesia |
 Freesia alba  Freesia alba  Freesia alba  Freesia alba |