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Purple Buttons, bred by Kim Rupert, 1993. USA

Breeding: 'Cardinal Hume' X self.
I have grown this rose for about 15 months now, and it has become a real favorite. It's parent, Cardinal Hume' is a great rose also, but it gets so large and can be a bit imposing. 'Purple Buttons' is classed as a Miniature in some writings, but I find it to be a bit large to think of as a true Miniature. Mine is already 2 feet tall, and seems to want to get bigger!

Blooms are fully double, the same port-wine hue as its parent, but about 2" across, with a folded button eye at the center. There is an odd fragrance that to me, is a lot like the purple Trilliums in spring....a sort of musky smell, and almost like Cinammon as well. It's hard to describe, and for me, it's not entirely a pleasant scent! This was bred by my friend Kim Rupert of California. Thanks Kim, for creating such a cool rose!

Currently, Sequoia Nursery and The Uncommon Rose are the only suppliers of 'Purple Buttons' that I am aware of.

ARS merit rating: none assigned
Personal merit rating: 8.5
Hardiness: Likely USDA zones 5 to 9, zone 5 in a protected location.
Shrub size: 2 to 2.5 feet tall, depending on climate.
Fragrance: 2.5, odd pungent fragrance, like trilliums.

Original photographs and site content © Paul Barden 1996-2006