Swamp Rose
Rosa palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rosa palustris (Swamp Rose) is a native shrub found across eastern North America from Maine to Florida. It produces fragrant pink flowers in June and July and thrives in wet soils near marshes and stream banks.
Swamp Rose (Rosa palustris) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Swamp Rose as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Swamp rose is a native shrub that produces fragrant pink flowers in summer followed by bright red hips in fall. This moisture-loving plant forms dense thickets over time and provides excellent wildlife habitat. It thrives in wet soils where other roses struggle.
Growing Swamp Rose
Grow Swamp Rose in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 72 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Swamp Rose takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Forms spreading thickets that look wild
- Can appear messy with thorny canes
- Requires consistently wet soil conditions
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during summer bloom, while the rose hips provide important fall and winter food for birds. Dense growth habit offers nesting sites and cover for small wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Rosa palustris naturally grow?
- Swamp Rose is native to 31 states across eastern North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas. It typically grows in wetlands, marshes, swamps, and along stream banks.
- When does Swamp Rose bloom?
- Rosa palustris blooms during June and July, producing clusters of fragrant pink flowers that are typically 2-3 inches across.
- What pollinators visit Swamp Rose?
- Swamp Rose attracts various native bees and beetles. The flowers provide nectar and pollen, while the plant also serves as a host for several butterfly and moth species.
- What growing conditions does Rosa palustris prefer?
- Swamp Rose thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It naturally grows in boggy areas, wet meadows, and along waterways where soil moisture remains high.
- Is Swamp Rose toxic to dogs?
- Swamp Rose is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Swamp Rose toxic to cats?
- Swamp Rose is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Swamp Rose toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Swamp Rose as toxic to livestock.
- Is Swamp Rose HOA-friendly?
- Swamp Rose takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Swamp Rose? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz