Freesia

Freesia is a fragrant corm-grown perennial with narrow, sword-shaped leaves and slender stems bearing one-sided clusters of funnel-shaped flowers. Flowers may be single or double and vary by species or cultivar; the genus is used for colorful cut flowers and containers. [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/freesia/) describes plants 1–2 feet tall, hardy in USDA zones 9–10, and attractive to bees and butterflies. ## Growing conditions Grow freesia in full sun to partial shade with cool conditions and moist, well-drained, organic-rich soil. In mild climates, corms can remain in the ground; where winters are cold, lift them and store them dry before replanting. [The RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/freesia/growing-guide) notes that planting time and corm preparation shift flowering: prepared corms may bloom outdoors in summer, while unprepared corms in mild districts can flower the following spring. ## Seasonal and landscape use Plant corms in groups in a deep container or sheltered border, and add successive plantings when a longer flowering display is desired. The lightly scented flowers are especially useful for cutting. ## Maintenance Water during active growth and bloom, then allow the dormant corms to dry. Lift and store corms if local frost would damage them.