The resolution proposes to designate the Peggy Martin Rose as the official state rose of Louisiana. This rose was first recognized by the Plaquemines Parish Council on April 9, 2026, due to its historical significance and its representation of resilience, endurance, and renewal. The rose is named after Peggy Martin, a longtime resident of Plaquemines Parish, and gained prominence after surviving the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which submerged the area under as much as thirty feet of water. Its survival has made it a symbol of hope and perseverance for the local community and the Gulf Coast region.
The Peggy Martin Rose is celebrated not only for its remarkable ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including flooding and poor soil, but also for its role in raising funds for the restoration of historic gardens across the country. Horticultural experts have recognized it as an exceptional plant, embodying the strength and spirit of the people of Louisiana. The resolution seeks to formally acknowledge the Peggy Martin Rose as a representation of the state's resilience and connection to its history.