Freesia alba

I had nearly given up on growing freesias in our climate, when Texan plantsman Tom Peace suggested that I try Freesia alba. To my surprise, it has become a favorite early spring bulb. Freesia alba comes from the winter-rainfall region of South Africa, where it can be found in moist, lightly shaded sites. For us, Freesia alba begins to grow in fall and is topped from late March through late April with short 2" stalks of very fragrant white flowers held above the 6" iris-like foliage. After flowering, the plants go dormant until the following winter. Plant these near a frequently traveled path for maximum pleasure.