BLUE FREESIA, BABOON FLOWER Babiana stricta

rarely offered from seed, this charming South African perennial has erect, pleated, sword-shaped leaves and fragrant, funnel-shaped, violet-blue, purple or yellow flowers with a much darker eye, in mid to late spring. Each flowering stem produces six or more blooms, each up to 5 cm (2 in) across.

There is varying information about the hardiness of these flowers, with some suggesting zones 4-10, and other zones 6 or 8 and up. We believe zone 8-10 is more accurate, and they are likely to survive down to zone 6 if mulch is provided in winter.

Very limited supply.

Type: Perennial

Location: Sun

Height: 12-20"

Seeds per pack: 3

Germination: Soak seeds for 24 hours before planting. Your planting container should have holes in the bottom for excess water to drain. Place the seeds under the surface of your growing medium, completely covered, as light can prevent germination. Place your container in a cool room for germination (65-70F). Germination can take several weeks.