The Butterfly Rose (Mutabalis) Potted Climbing Rose
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About Mutabilis – The Butterfly Rose
Rosa chinensis ‘Mutabilis’
Rosa chinensis ‘Mutabilis’, affectionately known as the “Butterfly Rose,” is a captivating old garden China rose first recorded in 1894. Its single, silky blooms open a soft honey-yellow, shift to warm pink, and deepen to crimson as they age—creating the illusion of a kaleidoscope of butterflies resting on the bush. This continual color change, combined with its graceful arching habit and glossy foliage, makes Mutabilis a garden showpiece. Loved for its exceptional disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nearly year-round bloom in warm climates, this rose thrives with minimal care while providing a living watercolor of shifting hues.
💐 Plant & Flower Traits
🌹 Rose Type: China Rose
🧬 Breeder: Unknown, first recorded in Italy, 1894
🏢 Introduced By: Various international nurseries
🎨 Color: Opens yellow, ages to pink, then crimson
🌸 Petal Count: 5 (single)
💠 Bloom Form: Single, cupped blooms in abundance
📏 Bloom Size: ~2–3″ (5–7.5 cm) across
🔁 Flowering: Continuous in warm climates
🏺 Vase Life: Short—best enjoyed fresh from the garden
🧴 Fragrance: Light, subtle
🏡 Growth & Garden Habits
🌿 Growth Type: Large, bushy shrub with arching canes
☀️ Light Requirements: Full sun
❄️ Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6–10
📐 Spacing: ~6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m)
↕️ Height: 5–8 ft (1.5–2.4 m)
↔️ Width: 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m)
🛡️ Health & Suitability
💪 Disease Resistance: Excellent—resistant to black spot and mildew
🌎 Regional Recommendations: Performs beautifully in the South, Southwest, West Coast, and other warm, sunny regions
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Beautiful Potted Roses in Two Sizes
Our exquisite California-grown roses are available in two stunning options: the premium #1 potted roses, known for their vibrant blooms and robust roots, and our luxurious Estate Roses™, which boast a remarkable size and grandeur. Each rose is a testament to the beauty and diversity of California’s enchanting landscape, ready to bring elegance and charm to any garden.
Living Luxury™
At Grace Rose Farm®, we believe in offering more than just beautiful roses—we deliver living luxury. Our exclusive Estate Rose™ collection represents the pinnacle of rose cultivation: mature, landscape-ready rose plants grown entirely in California under optimal conditions.
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One-Year Grow With Grace™ Guarantee
At Grace Rose Farm®, we’re all about growing gorgeous gardens and happy hearts. That’s why we’ve got your back with our One-Year Grow With Grace™ Guarantee—because we know sometimes things just don’t go as planned in the garden. If your plant doesn’t make it within the first year, no worries—we’ll help make it right with a little store credit love 💗.
