Freesia flowers symbolism and colours meaning guide
Freesia flowers are hugely popular during the spring and summer months. And they have a very symbolic meaning behind them too. With their pretty colours and feel-good scent, they’re usually used as either wedding flowers, or to brighten up the home, or simply to give to your favourite people.
Every flower has its own special meaning based on the myths and culture that surround it. And freesias are no different!

Interesting origins of the freesia flower
Originating in South Africa, the freesia flower came into the limelight in the 1800s. It was then cultivated in Europe by the mid-18th century where they’ve been making their mark ever since.
During the Victorian era, when ‘floriography’ really took off, freesias were used as a way to pass secret messages to each other, which we think is pretty cool! Basically, if you received a bunch of freesias from someone during this time it was the ultimate sign of trust.
Nowadays, freesias are mainly grown in big numbers for the florist industry because of their massive popularity as cut flowers. They’re also used for scented oils which you can normally find in lots of perfumes, soaps, shampoo and other lotions.
But did you know? This super-sweet smelling flower was named after a German physician-botanist Friedrich Heinrich Theodor Freese, by another botanist who wanted to celebrate their friendship. And that’s why this is now one of the main meanings behind freesias.
So what do freesias symbolise?
Freesias have been a big part of different cultures around the world for centuries! Here are some of the main things freesias symbolise:
Friendship
Because of the bromance between the botanist who found the flower and his friend, freesias have always been a flower that symbolises friendship. So, we think they’d make the perfect gift for a truly loyal friend who has been with you through thick and thin.
Trust
Like we mentioned earlier, dating back to the Victorian era, if you give someone a bouquet of freesias it can mean that you trust them completely. This could make them a really meaningful gift to either your best friend or your partner.
Innocence
Freesias can also symbolise innocence and purity, so they’re often gifted to welcome a new baby. They’re pretty popular to use for special occasions like baptisms, christenings and weddings too.
Thoughtfulness
For those extra special people in your life, you can give them a lovely bouquet of freesias just because.
Sweetness
Freesias are one of the flowers with the most uplifting scent! And if someone springs to mind who shares this feel-good trait, freesias are the perfect gift for them.
What are the different freesia colour meanings?
Freesias come in many different colours, from white and purple to yellow and red. Of course, for each colour of freesia, there is a different meaning attached to them.
White freesias symbolise innocence and purity
Perhaps that's why white freesias are such a popular choice for wedding flowers, bridal bouquets.