Freesia: in the February Flower Agenda
Origin
The tuberous freesia was ‘discovered’ in South Africa, where it was called ‘Cape lilies of the valley’. The flower was given the name ‘freesia’ in around 1830 by the South African botanist Ecklon, who named it after his friend, the German doctor F. Freese. Did you know that a freesia’s Floral display is called a comb, because of all the buds which are lined up so neatly?
Colours, shapes and fragrance
The freesia’s tuber forms small tubers under the soil, which are called beads. These beads grow into a full tuber and ultimately into a comb with flowers which lends extra style to any home. And freesias even carry on growing merrily in the vase! The freesia can be single or double flowered and comes in white, yellow, orange, red, blue, pink and purple, but can also be bi-coloured or multi-coloured. Many varieties have a beautiful sweet scent which makes freesias even more attractive.
Symbolism
The freesia symbolises unconditional love. Traditionally you give white freesias to your spouse after seven years of marriage, as a reminder of pure, genuine love. The beautiful fragrance of the comb of flowers lends an extra dimension to this. The freesia also symbolise innocence.
If you would like to find out more about the Flower Agenda, click here.