Swamp Rose

Scientific name

Rosa palustris

Description

The Swamp Rose is a beautiful perennial shrub species that typically grows 2m in height and spreads 2m. It is visually appealing with large pink flowers that last about 6-8 weeks. These flowers have five pink petals, a yellow center, and a pleasant fragrance. This species produces oblong shaped, compound leaves comprised of seven leaflets with serrated edges. The Swamp Rose produces red, round, fleshy fruit called rose hips, which remain on the bush throughout winter. These fruiting bodies provide a winter food source for wildlife, such as Grouse, Black Bears, Deer, and Rabbits. Swamp Rose may be confused with Prickly Wild Rose, which has a similar appearance. However, Swamp Rose can easily be distinguished by the presence of curved thorns, which appear at the nodes of the twigs without any occurring between the nodes. Swamp Rose grows best in moist, rich soils such as swamps and marshy shorelines. However, this species can also tolerate drier, loamy soils.

Planting conditions

Best grown in acidic, organically rich, wet soils with full sun. Tolerates light shade, but best growth, flowering, and disease resistance is in full sun. Plants will not grow in standing water, but can tolerate some seasonal flooding.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Max 2m
  • Max 3m
  • Any
• Moisture level:
  • Normal
  • Moist
  • Wet
  • Flood Tolerant
• Light conditions:
  • Full sun
  • Partial sun
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
• pH:
  • Acidic
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
• Plant type:
  • Shrub
• Height:
  • 2m
• Spread:
  • 2m