Rosa centifolia Muscosa - White Moss Rose

Rosa x centifolia 'Muscosa' is a simple mutation of the hundred-leaved rose. Its fragrance is unmatched and the countless petals are the main characteristics of this natural variety, which is charmingly called the Moss Rose, May Rose or Dutch Rose. 'Muscosa' forms a slightly gangly bush with a flexible habit, whose branches and even buds are curiously covered with a fragrant and resinous greenish moss, with a balsamic scent. The flowers, which are of a beautiful size and a tender pink colour, are globular when they open, then they unfold into flattened cups around a bud-shaped eye. Its flowering, a bit scattered, extends from June to August, in a sweet scent that is both gentle and sugary, recognizable among all. 

This hundred-leaved rose covered with fragrant moss was already blooming in 1699 in Germany, and it has been cultivated in England since 1724. Although its origin has long been controversial, it is commonly accepted that this mutation originated in central Germany. Rosa x centifolia 'Muscosa' is the origin of numerous hybrids obtained by cross-breeding with damask roses and Chinese rose hybrids, of which there are still 150 varieties grouped under the name of "moss roses".

'Muscosa' develops into a slightly loose bush, with a rounded habit, which can reach 1m (3ft 4in) in all directions or more, as it produces new shoots from the stump when grown on its own roots. Its very flexible, arching stems are green and covered with reddish prickles. They bear solitary roses from late spring to August, measuring 8 to 9cm (3.5in) in diameter, with 50 petals arranged in very tight quarters. Their colour is a pure and fresh pink, slightly lighter on the edges, and their scent is powerful, perceptible within several metres. The foliage, greyish green, proves resistant to diseases if the plant benefits from a well-aerated and sunny location. The moss rose is sometimes affected by powdery mildew.

If the passion for botanical roses is not widespread, it is fully justified, particularly in poor soils or under difficult climates: these roses are generally more robust than modern roses and very reliable. Rosa x centifolia 'Muscosa' is a fascinating and precious rose, whose unique fragrance of its soft roses is still cultivated for the perfumery industry. It will find its place in a defensive hedgerow, as it has style and forms a thorny mass that is difficult to cross. It can be associated with Cotinus for autumn colours, lilacs for their spring fragrance, mock oranges for the same reason, with Hibiscus taking over in summer, but also with viburnums and forsythias, which show a very accommodating character. Finally, it is a very hardy bush, which deserves to be placed near a walkway for its unique fragrance and texture.