We start 2011 by featuring a rose that has stood the test of time and is widely recognised as one of the best old fashioned roses to grow and will still look good, no matter how little care and attention it gets.
Perfect timing for those long hot summer days when the garden can take a back seat to other activities.
There is no rose quite like Mutabilis around with a colourful display of single blooms all season long. They open pale yellow but change to shades of pink and then crimson red creating an interesting display. With blooms at all stages of development, the plant can take on a tapestry effect at times. In warmer climates, the plant has blooms on almost year round and is almost evergreen.
Very easy to grow, Mutabilis is very healthy. Its twiggy growth can either be pruned back to form a well shaped plant or let it go and it will grow up to 2m high and wide. Grow it among other garden plants or it will make a good hedge on its own.
It was introduced into cultivation by Swiss Botanist Henri Correvon in 1932 but little is known before that. A very worthwhile rose to grow that is a little bit different.