The swamp rose is also known botanically as Rosa palustris or Rosa floridana. It is a member of the rose family of plants that has about 2,000 different inclusions, both wild and cultivated. It is native to the United States.
Swamp Rose Description
Growing six to eight feet high, this perennial shrub has thorny stems and dark green leaves. Foliage is compound and very showy, making for a nice display all on its own. There are many branches to this shrub. Flowers are dark rose-pink in color and are short-lived. Bloom season is between May and June.
Growing Guide
This native can grow in any type of lighting -from full shade to full sun conditions. It needs a wet or moist soil. Propagate by rootstock division, softwood cuttings, seeds, or stem cuttings. It may need cold-moist stratification to break the dormant cycle.
Distribution
The swamp rose is found in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. It is seen in the shorelines of ponds and lakes, wet thickets, and in swamps.
Problems
The swamp rose is prone to many fungal problems. It also has hooked thorns that are stout and painful.
Besides the thorns, that are common on many rose species, this is a nice flowering shrub that has cute flowers and very showy foliage. It makes for a great addition into the landscape.
Source: NPIN