Mutabalis
Mutabalis 
MUTABILIS
Syn. Rosa chinensis Mutabilis
Old China
Old China
This rose was probably introduced to horticulture in 1934 by Swiss Botanist, Henri Correvon of Geneva, who obtained it from Prince Ghilberto Borromeo’s garden at Isola Bella (Source: Botanica’s Roses). Breeder unknown, pre 1894.
Mutabilis has single flowers of 4 – 8 petals which change colour from pale yellow to pink and crimson as the flower ages. The transition of colours is quite remarkable and adds significant colour to any landscape. In full bloom, the multi coloured flowers look like butterflies covering the bush.
Mutabilis has single flowers of 4 – 8 petals which change colour from pale yellow to pink and crimson as the flower ages. The transition of colours is quite remarkable and adds significant colour to any landscape. In full bloom, the multi coloured flowers look like butterflies covering the bush.
This rose blooms in flushes from spring and continues throughout the season but is rarely without flowers.
It normally makes a large, spreading bush 1.2m – 3m high with a width of 0.9m – 1.8m and it has very few thorns. Unlike many roses, it has a higher tolerance for excessive rainfall & moisture but should still be grown in well-drained soil. It is also tolerant of shady positions making it very versatile in the garden but like most roses will benefit from 6 – 8 hours direct sunlight daily.
It normally makes a large, spreading bush 1.2m – 3m high with a width of 0.9m – 1.8m and it has very few thorns. Unlike many roses, it has a higher tolerance for excessive rainfall & moisture but should still be grown in well-drained soil. It is also tolerant of shady positions making it very versatile in the garden but like most roses will benefit from 6 – 8 hours direct sunlight daily.
This hardy, reliable performer can be grown as a feature plant or a hedge to create a colourful border. A healthy rose well worth a place in the garden.
Text: Sharyn Perrin
