perennial

Large Marsh-pink

Sabatia decandra

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

9 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist to wet

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Biennial or short-lived perennial

Native To

Eastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic

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:

Provides striking purple blooms mid-summer, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Requires moist, well-drained soil, making it ideal for rain gardens.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

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

Wildflower meadow with vibrant purple accentsShaded border with lush foliageMoist garden bed for attracting pollinators

Companion Plants

Joe Pye Weed Swamp Milkweed Blue Flag Iris Cattails Pickerelweed

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.