Audubon® Native Swamp Rose Mallow

A full-service wildlife café! Swamp Rose Mallow is a popular dining spot with a diverse clientele. When the showy, six-inch, pink flowers open in summer and the nectar is flowing, hummingbirds are eager customers. Tiger swallowtail butterflies, bumblebees, and other pollinators frequent the flowers, too. There’s even a native bee called the Rose Mallow bee that forages specifically on its pollen. Swamp Rose Mallow also serves up its foliage to many species of moth and butterfly caterpillars, which in turn become meals for songbirds. These protein-rich morsels are vital to the development of their baby chicks.

Judging by its big, flashy flowers and large leaves, you’d probably assume that Swamp Rose Mallow was some sort of tender, tropical houseplant from Hawaii or South America. In fact, this tough, cold-hardy perennial Spirit is native to Massachusetts. From there, its range reaches down to Texas and Florida. Swamp Rose Mallow is found in sunny, wet areas, often growing right in the water. Here Red-Wing Blackbirds nest among its sturdy stems, and ducks like the northern pintail and the Blue-Winged Teal eat its seeds. And of course, Hummingbirds can be seen constantly zipping around the flowers.

If they don’t become bird food, some of the caterpillars that Swamp Rose Mallow hosts become interesting adults. There is the Painted Lady butterfly, the Io moth, and the Pearly Wood nymph. Then there is a funny insect called the “delightful bird-dropping moth”! It’s actually kind of cute—even though the name is spot-on.

Audubon is devoted to protecting birds and the places they need, while Bower & Branch is devoted to the growth of true native trees and plants–no cultivars or hybrids. Together, we strive to unite communities in conservation and inspire individuals to cultivate a better world for birds starting in their own backyards, balconies, or patios. By guiding and recommending trees and plants truly native and beneficial to your region, we can really start to make a difference.

What is the definition of Native?

“In the United States, a native plant is defined as one that was naturally found in a particular area before European colonization. Native plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for birds, especially those threatened by the changing climate. Since native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions, they generally require less upkeep, therefore helping the environment and saving you time, water, and money.” – The National Audubon Society

Learn how you can help birds in your home and community through Audubon’s Plants for Birds program.

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