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Georgia Considers Dual State Flower Designation

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. gia-considers-dual-state-flower-designation.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 0:04 GMT by CBS News
      Locales: Georgia, UNITED STATES

ATLANTA, GA - February 5th, 2026 - Georgia lawmakers are currently debating a proposal that could see the state's floral representation expand from a single bloom to a beautiful pairing. House Bill 1037, currently before the Georgia House of Representatives, seeks to officially designate both the Cherokee rose and the sweetbay magnolia as state flowers. While the Cherokee rose has held the title of Georgia's official state flower for decades, proponents of the bill argue that including the sweetbay magnolia would offer a more comprehensive and accurate reflection of the state's diverse botanical landscape.

Currently, Georgia law firmly establishes the Cherokee rose ( Rosa cherokee) as the sole official state flower. Its historical ties to the Cherokee people, particularly its cultivation by them and its association with the Trail of Tears, have long been central to its status. The rose, a delicate and often fragrant bloom, was introduced to Georgia in the early 19th century and quickly became a beloved wildflower. However, Representative Dewayne Brooks, R-Marine City, the sponsor of HB 1037, believes that limiting the representation to just one flower fails to capture the full scope of Georgia's natural beauty.

"The Cherokee rose is a wonderful flower, with a significant place in Georgia's history," Rep. Brooks stated during a recent committee hearing. "But Georgia's flora is incredibly diverse. The sweetbay magnolia is found in abundance throughout the state, in a variety of ecosystems, from coastal plains to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It's a flower that many Georgians see regularly, and it's a strong symbol of our natural heritage."

The sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) is a semi-evergreen tree or large shrub known for its fragrant, creamy-white flowers. Unlike the showier Southern magnolia, the sweetbay magnolia boasts a more subtle elegance. Its preference for moist, woodland habitats makes it a common sight in many parts of Georgia, and it provides valuable habitat for wildlife. Advocates point to its widespread presence as a key reason for its inclusion, arguing that it's a flower that resonates with more Georgians on a daily basis.

This isn't the first time an attempt has been made to broaden Georgia's floral representation. Previous proposals have suggested adding other native flowers, such as the peach blossom, but they haven't gained significant traction. The current bill's focus on the sweetbay magnolia appears to be strategically chosen, emphasizing its ubiquity and established presence within the state's ecosystems. The intention isn't to replace the Cherokee rose, but rather to complement it, creating a dual designation that acknowledges both historical significance and natural abundance.

Botanists and environmental groups are largely supportive of the bill. Dr. Evelyn Reed, a botanist at the University of Georgia, commented, "From a scientific perspective, recognizing the sweetbay magnolia is a logical step. It's a native species that plays an important ecological role, and it's far more representative of the state's overall floral composition than a flower with a more limited range."

The bill's potential impact extends beyond symbolic recognition. Supporters believe that a dual designation could promote awareness of Georgia's native plant species and encourage conservation efforts. Increased visibility could also benefit tourism, highlighting the state's natural beauty and attracting visitors interested in its unique flora. However, some critics raise concerns about the potential for confusion or the dilution of the Cherokee rose's historical meaning. They argue that maintaining a single state flower preserves its symbolic power and avoids unnecessary complexity.

The debate surrounding HB 1037 highlights a broader trend in state floral designations. Several states have multiple official flowers, recognizing different blooms for specific purposes or regions. In Massachusetts, for example, the mayflower is the official state flower, but the cranberry blossom is the state agricultural flower. This approach allows for a more nuanced and comprehensive representation of a state's natural heritage.

The Georgia House of Representatives is expected to continue deliberations on HB 1037 in the coming weeks. If passed, the bill would then move to the Senate for consideration. The outcome remains uncertain, but the discussion itself is prompting a renewed appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Georgia's floral landscape. Regardless of the final decision, the bill serves as a reminder of the important role that flowers play in shaping our cultural identity and connecting us to the natural world.