Rosa 'Mutabilis' Rosa chinensis

China Rose is one of the oldest cultivated roses, having been introduced before 1894. It is a large shrub rose native to the temperate areas of Sichuan, Hubei, and Guizhou provinces in southwestern China. The genus name Rosa is the Latin for rose; the specific epithet indicates its origin. The flowers appear from April through September in groups of four or five. They are one and a half to two inches across. The petals can be single, semi-double or double in form colored white, pink, red, or purple. Some are slightly fragrant. The China Rose known as 'Mutabilis' has flowers that start out cream then mutate through deepening shades of pink until they finish a deep red. This change takes place in such a way that it is possible to have flowers of every color on the bush at the same time. When the small fruits, rose hips, begin to mature to their bright red color in June, the bush makes quite a sight.

As with most roses Butterfly Rose enjoys full sun; moist, slightly acidic, well drained loam; moderate watering, and good air circulation. In the south, a full grown China Rose can reach six feet in height and spread. When planting try to allow for one foot of space all around the mature plant. This will promote good air circulation and reduce chances of foliar diseases. Do not water from above. This too can lead to foliar disease. Water at the base and use mulch to conserve moisture. As with all roses, deadheading will promote further flushes of bloom. Prune China Rose in the early spring. Look here for a guide to pruning shrub roses.

Because of its mature size, Butterfly Rose makes a good specimen plant or can be used to provide height in a garden bed. It also makes a good hedge. As it attracts honey bees, include it in a pollinator garden.

China Rose is susceptible to Black Spot, Powdery Mildew, Rust and Rose Rosette. Maintaining good growing conditions is the best way to manage these foliar diseases however you can find information for controlling them here. They will be attacked by aphids, Japanese beetle, borers, scale insects, thrips, rose midges, leafhoppers and spider mites. You can find information to help with the identification and control of these pests here. These plants are frequently damaged by deer.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.