Marsh Rose

comarum palustre

Also known as: ["Marsh Cinquefoil","Swamp Rose"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Comarum Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous, creeping shrub native to wetlands, bogs, and marshy areas, known for its pink, rose-like flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Comarum
Botanical Name: Comarum palustre

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: bog gardens, wet meadows, or containers with constant moisture
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
  • Soil Type: Moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; peat-based mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust based on intensity and season.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.

Soil

moist, acidic, peaty soil with good organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).

Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use a slow-release option for convenience; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged growth; shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; maintain air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the soil around the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure consistent moisture retention.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows metabolic processes; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Comarum palustre can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or may be a response to environmental stress such as waterlogging or excessive sunlight.

Wilting in Comarum palustre is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage from waterlogged soil, which impairs water uptake.

Leaf spots on Comarum palustre may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by high humidity or poor air circulation, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Comarum palustre is commonly associated with prolonged waterlogging, leading to anaerobic conditions that promote fungal pathogens.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that consume Comarum palustre may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's compounds can cause digestive upset, though the effects are generally not severe or long-lasting.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Comarum palustre by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. While not life-threatening, the plant can cause discomfort and digestive issues in canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Comarum palustre contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's tissues may contain irritants that affect the digestive system, leading to discomfort without posing significant systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of any part of the plant. Wash hands after handling to prevent accidental ingestion.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Comarum palustre toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Where does Comarum palustre grow best?

A: It thrives in wetlands, bogs, and marshy areas with partial shade.

Q: Does Comarum palustre attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Goat's Beard
View
Ural False Spirea
View
Showy Cotoneaster
View
Navel Cinquefoil
View