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Georgia is one of the few states where the story of its state flower isn’t just history.
It’s still unfolding.
For over a hundred years, the Cherokee rose was known as Georgia’s state flower. But on March 12, 2026, that officially changed.
Today, the Sweetbay Magnolia represents the state.
To understand why, you have to look at both stories — the one Georgia carried for generations, and the one it chose moving forward.
This short video shares the story of Georgia’s state flower, including the history of the Cherokee rose and the recent change to the Sweetbay Magnolia.
Sweetbay Magnolia
Sweetbay Magnolia
Magnolia virginiana
The Sweetbay Magnolia is native to the southeastern United States and grows naturally in wetlands and coastal areas across Georgia.
A few things that make it special:
Native to the southeastern United States
Blooms in late spring and summer
Found in wetlands and along coastal plains
Known for its creamy white, fragrant flowers
The Sweetbay Magnolia reflects the natural landscape of Georgia and is part of a long history of magnolias in the South.
Cherokee Rose
Cherokee Rose
Rosa laevigata
The Cherokee rose was widely known as Georgia’s state flower for over a century, even though it is not native to North America.
A few things that made it meaningful:
Blooms in spring
Known for its white petals and yellow center
Often associated with Southern gardens and landscapes
For generations, it was the flower most people connected with Georgia.
Why It Became the State Flower
The Cherokee rose was adopted as Georgia’s state flower in 1916 and remained in that role for over 100 years.
Over time, conversations began about whether the state flower should reflect a plant that is native to Georgia.
On March 12, 2026, Georgia officially changed its state flower to the Sweetbay Magnolia.
The decision reflected a shift toward recognizing native species and the natural ecosystems that define the state.
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