Freesia
Common Names: Freesia
Botanical names: Freesia, (FREE-sha)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 7 to 10 days
Storage temperatures: 32 - 36 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: Yes
Description: Curved spikes of fragrant, trumpet-shaped florets 1 to 2 inches long born on one side of a slender stem. 5-8 flowers per one sided stem. Flowers can be found in both single nd double form.
Color: A wide range of colors, Orange, Purple, Red, White, Yellow
Botanical facts: Native to South Africa, the Freesia was named for Dr. Friedrich Freese, a German physician and student of South African plants.
Design notes: Works well as accent and filler flower. Best suited to simple arrangements. The fragrance of freesia is a wonderful addition to floral design.
Purchasing hints: Purchase stems with at least seven flowers per spike. The first one or two florets should be open. Select long straight stems. Avoid pale or transparent petals, this is a sign of ethylene damage.
Conditioning: Cut stem ends with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Fluoridated water may cause leaf tip burn and hinder flower development. Removal of older florets on a spike will help stimulate the opening of newer buds. Freesias are often associated with the familiar and cozy, being much loved by "older ladies". A silver bud vase with a bunch of short freesia and a sprig of asparagus fern was typical in the 1950s. It was also a popular as gift for births. Despite this nostalgia, freesias have a strong role in today's and tomorrow's interiors. The newer longer stemmed varieties displayed as a solitary flower with no accompanying foliage, perhaps in a group of identical vases, would match the most up-to-date stylized interior.
Video Demonstration: