Rosa palustris seed Swamp Rose

Rosa palustris – Swamp Rose

Rosa palustris (the swamp rose) is a shrub in the rose family native to much of eastern North America. It can be found from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick in the north, south to Florida and west to Arkansas and Ontario.

It is a shrub with alternate, pinnately compound leaves, on thorny stems. The flowers are pink, borne in summer. It grows up to 180cm tall with a 100cm spread. It is hardy in Zones 5a to 9b, making it suitable for most locations. It prefers a location in full sun, though it will grow in all locations except deep shade and very waterlogged soils. Ideal for use in a cottage garden planting where it will add both colour and scent.