Mark A. Miller
Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
Rosa x odorata 'Mutabilis'
Plant Common Name
Butterfly Rose, Tea Rose, Tea-Scented China Rose, Tipo Ideale
General Description
Bearing masses of single flowers that undergo a fascinating color metamorphosis, this somewhat cold-tender rose is a cultivar of Rosa x odorata, a hybrid long cultivated in China. Arriving in Europe sometime in the nineteenth century and introduced to horticulture in 1934, 'Mutabilis' bears relatively small, fragrant, five-petaled flowers from late spring into summer or fall. The blooms open buff-yellow but change to salmon, pink, and finally crimson as they age. Pea-sized fruits follow, ripening to orange-red. A small- to medium-sized shrub with lax thorny branches, it can reach considerable height if trained upright on a fence or wall.
Nearly evergreen in mild climates, the compound leaves have several glossy medium-green leaflets. Young shoots and leaves are purple-tinged. Although no wider than a modest daisy, the flowers are profusely borne on the arching stems. Flowering can continue into winter in mild climates. Remove spent flowers to maximize bloom.
Roses prefer full to partial sun, moderate temperatures and perfectly drained, slightly acid soil with average to good fertility. They grow best in places with slightly dry climates, because such climates disfavor the fungal diseases that plague them. For this reason, it is important to maintain good airflow within and between planted roses through good planting and pruning practices which will dissuade fungal attacks. They are also susceptible to a suite of viral and bacterial diseases as well as insect pests, so it is wise to select a robust and resistant cultivar when choosing a rose.
Characteristics
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Plant Type
Shrub
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
4'-10' / 1.2m - 3.0m
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Width
4'-6' / 1.2m - 1.8m
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Native To
Hybrid Origin
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color Modifier
Multi-Color
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green, Light Green
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Bark Color Modifier
Multi-Color
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Evergreen
Semi-Evergreen
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Showy Bark
Yes
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Feature Plant, Foundation, Groundcover, Hedges, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Topiary / Bonsai / Espalier
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Sharp or Has Thorns
Yes
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Self-Sowing
No
