Rosa × centifolia ‘Muscosa’ has a distinctive feature: its flower buds, sepals, and flower stalks are covered with fine, moss-like growths. These are small glandular hairs that release a resinous scent when touched, with hints of pine needles. The name Muscosa refers to this mossy appearance.

This historic moss rose arose as a natural mutation of the cabbage rose, Rosa × centifolia. It is also known as Common Moss. Lens dates it to 1696 and lists France as its origin, although its exact origin is uncertain. It is therefore one of the early moss roses, which became known from the end of the seventeenth century onward.

Its pink flowers are densely filled and have a globular, quartered form. During its single summer flowering, they release a strong rose fragrance. The shrub grows upright, with gracefully arching branches and numerous prickles. A characterful rose for a historic rose garden or romantic border.