Variegated roses are instantly recognizable by their striking, two-toned petals that appear striped, splashed, or speckled with color. Unlike solid-colored blooms, these roses display a mosaic of hues, such as red and white, or pink and yellow, on a single flower. This appearance is the product of a biological event that creates a visually unique plant. These multicolored varieties attract many gardeners looking for an addition to their landscape.
How Variegated Roses Get Their Striped Appearance
The striped appearance of a variegated rose results from the plant being a genetic chimera, meaning it is composed of two or more distinct genetic tissues growing side-by-side. This condition originates from a spontaneous somatic mutation, a genetic change occurring in a single cell of the plant’s growing point, or meristem. This mutation creates a cell line unable to produce the full complement of pigments in the petals.
The shoot tip of a rose is organized into distinct cell layers, designated as L1, L2, and L3, which give rise to different parts of the flower and stem. In a variegated rose, the mutation for color loss often resides in one layer, such as the L2 layer, which contributes cells to the petals. Since adjacent, unmutated cell layers continue to produce full pigments, the resulting flower is a mix of the two cell lines. The alternating presence of pigment-producing and non-pigment-producing cells creates the visual effect of stripes or splashes on the petals.
Growing Conditions
Providing the right environment helps ensure the variegated rose maintains the vigor needed to support its unique tissue. Like all roses, these varieties require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day to fuel robust growth and flower development. Full sun exposure is necessary for the plant’s overall health.
The expression of the striped coloration is sensitive to environmental factors like intense heat. Very high temperatures can sometimes cause the vibrant pigments to fade or “bleach out,” resulting in paler colors. A rich, well-draining soil structure and consistent moisture are also required to maintain the plant’s health. Consistent watering and a regular fertilization schedule support the plant’s energy demands for continuous flowering.
Preventing Color Reversion
Due to their chimeral nature, variegated roses possess an inherent instability, making them susceptible to reversion. Reversion occurs when the mutated, variegated tissue reverts to the original, non-mutated genetic line, resulting in an all-green cane with solid-colored flowers. This all-green growth has a higher concentration of chlorophyll, making it more vigorous and faster-growing than the variegated portion.
If left unchecked, these reverted canes will out-compete the striped parts of the plant and dominate the entire bush. To maintain the variegated pattern, gardeners must inspect the plant regularly and immediately prune any canes that display only solid green leaves or flowers. This removal should be done by cutting the reverted shoot back to the node where the striped pattern is still present. Removing this vigorous growth prevents it from taking over and preserves the rose’s two-toned appearance.