Swamp Rose
Deciduous shrub growing 1-2.5 m tall. Features compound leaves and fragrant pink flowers blooming in early summer, followed by red rose hips persisting into winter. Stems have hooked prickles. Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates flooding. Provides food and cover for wildlife. Suitable for wetland margins, rain gardens, and moist meadows. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pink
Bloom Time: Early to Mid-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Leaves emerge late May. Pink flowers appear July. Red rose hips develop September, persisting through winter. Yellow to orange fall color develops October.
Wildlife Value: Rose hips eaten by birds and mammals; flowers attract native bees; provides cover in wet areas; winter food source
Habit Over Time: Creates tall, arching stems that spread slowly through underground runners. While it can form extensive colonies over time, the stems are spaced far enough apart to allow other moisture-loving plants to grow between them. The open growth pattern provides good visibility through the plant at eye level.
Height: Tall (4-8 feet)