BATON ROUGE – The Louisiana Legislature has proclaimed the Peggy Martin Rose as the official state rose through the passage of Senate Concurrent Resolution 55 (SCR 55), authored by Senator Patrick Connick and co-sponsored by Representatives Braud, Echols, Freeman, Lacombe and Wyble.
The proclamation recognizes a flower that has become a powerful symbol of resilience, perseverance and renewal for Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.
Known throughout the gardening world for its remarkable ability to survive extreme conditions, the Peggy Martin Rose traces its roots to Plaquemines Parish and longtime resident Peggy Martin. Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, when catastrophic flooding submerged homes and landscapes beneath as much as 30 feet of water, a rose growing alongside Martin’s tractor shed survived more than two weeks underwater. While much of the surrounding area was devastated, the rose endured, becoming a symbol of hope and recovery for communities rebuilding after the historic storm.
“I never imagined that a rose from my garden in Plaquemines Parish would one day become the official rose of Louisiana,” said Peggy Martin. “The Peggy Martin Rose survived Hurricane Katrina and became a symbol of resilience, perseverance and hope. Those qualities define the people of Louisiana and I am deeply honored that this rose will now serve as an official symbol of our state. Like Louisiana itself, it has weathered storms, overcome adversity, and continued to flourish. I can’t think of a more fitting symbol for our great state.”
“Few plants embody the spirit of Louisiana more than the Peggy Martin Rose,” said Senator Patrick Connick. “Its survival through one of the most devastating natural disasters in our state’s history represents the strength, determination, and resilience of our people.”
“The Peggy Martin Rose is part of the story of Plaquemines Parish,” said State Representative Jacob Braud. “Its remarkable survival after Hurricane Katrina reflects the spirit of the people who call Plaquemines home. I am proud to help honor a symbol that grew from our parish and now represents the strength of all Louisianians.”
The rose was named in honor of Peggy Martin and has since gained national recognition. Distributed throughout the country, it has helped support the restoration of historic gardens and preservation efforts while sharing its inspiring story with gardeners and communities nationwide.
The Legislature noted that horticultural experts regard the Peggy Martin Rose as an exceptional plant because of its ability to withstand flooding, poor soil conditions and harsh environmental challenges, qualities that mirror the character of Louisiana residents who continue to overcome adversity and thrive.
The proclamation builds upon local recognition in Plaquemines Parish, where the Parish Council officially designated the Peggy Martin Rose as the parish’s official rose in April 2026.
With the adoption of SCR 55, the Peggy Martin Rose now holds the distinction of serving as Louisiana’s official state rose, honoring both its remarkable history and the enduring spirit it represents.
About the Peggy Martin Rose
The Peggy Martin Rose is a thornless climbing rose known for its vibrant pink blooms, vigorous growth and extraordinary resilience. Its survival following Hurricane Katrina transformed it into a nationally recognized symbol of hope, recovery, and perseverance.
More on the rose can be found at: www.plaqueminesparishtourism.com/peggy-martin-rose
Read the resolution: https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=1467543