Mutabalis, the Butterfly Rose

Mutabalis, also known as the “Butterfly Rose” is a rose unlike any other. A china rose, introduced before 1894, its origins are obscure. Swiss botanist Henri Correvon is credited with introducing it to the market in 1934. He had been gifted the rose forty years earlier by Prince Gilberto Borromeo who grew it on Isola Bella, his estate on Lake Maggiore. Correvon called it ‘Mutabalis‘ for it color-changing nature. It is also known as ‘Tipo Ideale‘. For many gardeners, it is simply “The Butterfly Rose” because when in full bloom, it resembles a flock of them.

The color changing nature of Mutabalis is one of its unique features. Most roses fade as they age but not this one. Copper colored buds open to a deep yellow and often the two colors meld to a striking blend. On the second day, the color changes to pink and finally a deep crimson.

Of course the flowers are beautiful but the foliage just as satisfying. It has a twiggy rose and the stems and thorns are dark red. China roses have a particular elegance about them and Mutabalis is no exception.  Although most china roses are compact in nature, Mutablis is robust. It easily reaches 5-6 feet in height and width and probably more if allowed to go unchecked. It responds well to pruning and responds quickly by sending out vigorous new shoots. This rose has great disease resistance.

Mutabalis is a somewhat tender rose, and it is best to give it a sheltered location, ideally in a protected niche or against a sunny southern-facing wall to do its best.