Freesia laxa aka False Freesia

Freesia laxa is remarkably easy to grow with minimal care requirements. It has no serious insect or disease problems and is highly drought-tolerant once established. The main consideration is providing proper drainage and a dry dormancy period. In suitable climates (USDA zones 7b-10), it essentially takes care of itself and may even self-sow to the point of becoming prolific.

Freesia laxa is a compact plant reaching 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) in height with a spread of approximately 15-20 cm. It forms small clumps of grass-like, fan-shaped foliage from which flower stems emerge. The plant reaches its mature size within 1-2 years from seed or corm. Growth is relatively fast, with plants often blooming within the first or second year from seed.

Freesia laxa is native to eastern and southern Africa, with a range extending from western Kenya through Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, and southward through Mozambique, Eswatini (Swaziland), and into the eastern provinces of South Africa including KwaZulu-Natal and the Cape regions. It grows naturally in seasonally dry tropical and subtropical areas, typically in somewhat moist conditions during its growing season.

Freesia laxa has moderate cold hardiness, rated H3 by RHS (tolerating -5°C to 1°C / 23-34°F). It is reliably winter-hardy in USDA zones 7b-10. The plant tolerates heat well and is notably drought-resistant in hot climates.

During the active growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Freesia laxa naturally thrives in low-fertility soils, so avoid over-fertilizing which can promote excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Stop fertilizing once the plant begins to go dormant after flowering. No feeding is needed during the dormant period when the corms should be kept completely dry.

Freesia laxa propagates easily by both seed and division. Seeds should be sown at 13-16°C (55-61°F) in spring and will often flower within 1-2 years. The distinctive bright red seeds germinate readily in sandy substrate with occasional watering. For division, separate corm offsets during the dormant period in autumn (September-October). The plant also self-sows freely where conditions suit it, sometimes to the point of becoming prolific.

Freesia laxa follows a distinct seasonal cycle. In Northern Hemisphere gardens, foliage emerges in late autumn/winter and grows through to spring. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer (May-June), after which the plant enters dormancy as summer heat intensifies. During dormancy, keep corms completely dry - this dry rest period is essential.

Freesia laxa produces elegant, upward-facing, starry flowers about 2 cm (0.8 inch) across in loose racemes of up to 6 blooms. The typical form displays salmon-red to pink flowers with distinctive darker red markings on the lower three petals. The subspecies azurea bears pale blue to lilac flowers with blue-violet markings. A pure white form and the cultivar 'Joan Evans' (white with red blotch) are also available. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer.

Two subspecies are recognized: Freesia laxa subsp. laxa with the typical pink to red flowers and dark red markings, and F. laxa subsp. azurea with pale blue to lilac flowers bearing dark blue-violet markings (this subspecies is winter-flowering and restricted to coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique). The cultivar 'Joan Evans' features white flowers with a red blotch and has been used in hybrid breeding programs, producing offspring with notable vigor.

Freesia laxa thrives outdoors in USDA zones 7b-10 where it can remain in the ground year-round. Plant corms 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) deep in autumn in these areas. In colder zones, either grow in containers that can be moved indoors in winter, or lift and store corms after the first frost. The plant is now naturalized in several regions outside its native range including Florida, Madeira, Mauritius, and parts of Australia.

Repot or refresh container-grown Freesia laxa during the dormant period in late summer to autumn. Use well-drained, sandy compost with low fertility. Corms can be divided at this time if clumps have become crowded. Container culture is ideal for this species as it allows easy management of the dry dormancy period and winter protection in colder regions.

Freesia laxa is remarkably trouble-free with no serious insect or disease problems reported. RHS notes it is 'generally pest free' and 'generally disease free'. The main cultural issue is rot from overwatering during dormancy - ensure corms are kept completely dry during this period. Good drainage is essential to prevent fungal problems.

Freesia laxa is pollinated by insects and is also self-fertile. The red-flowered subspecies (subsp. laxa) is primarily pollinated by butterflies, while the blue-flowered subspecies (subsp. azurea) is visited by long-tongued tangle-veined flies - the different flower colors correspond to different pollinator preferences. Although self-compatible, cross-pollination improves fruit set and seed production.

False Freesia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

False Freesia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

False Freesia requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your False Freesia will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

False Freesia is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.