Freesia lactea is native to South Africa, where it is found predominantly in the winter rainfall regions of the Cape Province. Its natural habitat includes sandy or rocky slopes and grasslands, where it benefits from well-drained soils and a Mediterranean-type climate. This environment is characterized by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, conditions to which Freesia lactea has adapted well.

The winter rainfall species add an interesting and fun project for winter growing in my area, they have been surprisingly hardy, which for me means lows into the single digits, with the protection of a frost blanket in an unheated greenhouse. These would be great for growing in a sunny windowsill in colder climates, or in the garden in the southern regions.

In cultivation, Freesia lactea is valued for its sweet fragrance and beautiful flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements. It thrives in garden beds and borders, as well as in pots and containers, especially when planted in soil that mimics its natural habitat, with good drainage and ample sunlight. Its ability to naturalize and produce abundant blooms makes it a cherished plant among gardeners seeking both beauty and fragrance in their landscapes.