Care of the bulbous plant Tritonia crocata or Flame freesia |
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The genus Tritonia, family Iridaceae, comprises 30 species of bulbous plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Tritonia crocata, Tritonia gladiolaris, Tritonia aurea, Tritonia squalida, Tritonia nelsonii. Common names: Flame freesia, Flaming Freesia. This species is native to South Africa. They are bulbous herbaceous plants that reach 40 cm (15.7") in height. The leaves are lanceolate and light green in color. The interesting flowers appear in clusters and are deep orange or reddish in color. They bloom from late spring to early summer. They are used in rockeries, in mixed borders and in pots for terraces and patios, as indoor and greenhouse plants. Tritonia crocata needs full sun exposure. Indoors, the location should be very bright and have good ventilation. They prefer well-drained soil that contains organic matter (compost). Planting the bulbs can be done in late winter or early spring. Water regularly in spring and summer waiting for the soil to dry out. In autumn and winter reduce watering a lot. Fertilize with compost in late winter. They do not need pruning. They can be attacked by aphids and mites if the drought is excessive and by fungi if there is excess humidity. They are propagated from seeds sown in fall seedlings in a sandy substrate with compost. The transplanting of the seedlings is done in early spring. |
Images of the bulbous plant Tritonia crocata or Flame freesia |
 Tritonia crocata  Tritonia crocata  Tritonia crocata |