The freesias are up and looking tall and stately, their intoxicating scent stirring something primal yet out of reach. They’re appearing in order of color, first white followed by yellow, and red.

Freesia’s self-propagate yearly, popping up along the curb garden, behind the fountain, and along the garden path. One package of bulbs purchased years ago graces my garden with seemingly endless offspring.

I recently learned that my ability to smell these garden gems is a genetic trait. About ten percent of the general population can’t smell freesia. I am one grateful gardener.