Peggy Martin Rose

A Symbol of Resilience in Plaquemines Parish

In Plaquemines Parish, stories of resilience are woven into the very fabric of the land—and few stories capture that spirit more beautifully than the Peggy Martin Rose, now proudly designated as the Official Flower of Plaquemines Parish.

A Rose with Deep Roots

The story begins in Phoenix, Louisiana, where longtime resident Peggy Martin cultivated a remarkable garden of more than 1,000 plants, including hundreds of antique roses. Among them was a unique climbing rose of unknown origin, believed to date back to the 19th century—quietly thriving as part of Louisiana’s rich gardening heritage.

A Story of Survival

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina brought catastrophic flooding to Plaquemines Parish, with waters rising up to 30 feet and devastating homes, landscapes, and lives. Peggy Martin’s garden was nearly destroyed.

But one rose endured.

Climbing along a tractor shed, this remarkable plant survived more than two weeks completely submerged in floodwaters. Against all odds, it lived—and in doing so, became a powerful symbol of hope and perseverance for the entire region.

From Garden to National Recognition

In the years following the storm, the rose was carefully propagated and shared across the country. It was named the Peggy Martin Rose in honor of its caretaker and her lifelong dedication to gardening.

As it spread, the rose helped raise funds for the restoration of historic gardens and inspired countless gardeners with its extraordinary strength. Horticultural experts now recognize it as one of the toughest climbing roses—capable of withstanding flooding, poor soil, and harsh environmental conditions.

A Living Symbol of Plaquemines Parish and Louisiana

Today, the Peggy Martin Rose stands as more than just a plant—it is a living testament to the resilience, endurance, and spirit of Plaquemines Parish and its people.

In recognition of its historical significance and powerful symbolism, the Plaquemines Parish Council officially designated the Peggy Martin Rose as the Official Flower of Plaquemines Parish. The honor also celebrates Peggy Martin herself, whose passion and legacy continue to inspire.

In 2026, the Louisiana Legislature officially designated the Peggy Martin Rose as the Official State Rose of Louisiana through the passage of Senate Concurrent Resolution 55. The honor recognizes the rose's extraordinary survival following Hurricane Katrina and its enduring role as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and hope. Today, the Peggy Martin Rose proudly represents both Plaquemines Parish and the State of Louisiana, celebrating the strength and spirit of the people it has come to symbolize.

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Experience the Spirit of Louisiana’s Delta Country

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‍Visitors to Plaquemines Parish can experience the beauty and resilience of Louisiana’s Delta Country through its landscapes, culture, and stories like this one.

The Peggy Martin Rose reminds us that even in the face of adversity, something beautiful can endure—and bloom again.