The Story
Plant Bio
Sabatia decandra is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb characterized by its delicate, star-shaped, rose-pink flowers with a central yellow star. It has slender, upright stems and lance-shaped green foliage, typically found in moist, sandy, acidic soils.
Known as Large Marsh-pink, this species is noted for its showy, fragrant flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Its adaptability to wet habitats makes it an excellent choice for bog gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized wetland areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
9 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moist to wet
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Biennial or short-lived perennial
Native To
Eastern United States
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a moist, well-drained location with partial shade.
- Tuck seeds into soil surface and lightly cover with soil.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring to promote growth.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring for vigor.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture; avoid dry, compacted soils.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Divide every few years for healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid dry or overly compacted soils ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh sun in hot climates
- Skip fertilizing in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Large Marsh-pink questions
What zones can Large Marsh-pink grow in?
Large Marsh-pink is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Large Marsh-pink deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Large Marsh-pink, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Large Marsh-pink bloom?
Large Marsh-pink typically blooms in mid to late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Large Marsh-pink need full sun?
Large Marsh-pink does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Sabatia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Large Marsh-pink with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.