Rose Flower Proliferation

Plants are amazing. They often produce unusual growths, unexpected flower and leaf colors and other surprises. Sometimes these changes lead to the introduction of a new variety while other times it leaves gardeners perplexed. The latter is the case with rose flower proliferation.

Occasionally gardeners find individual rose blossoms sprouting flower buds that develop into another layer of bloom. This proliferation of flower buds is due to a physiological disorder called rose flower proliferation. Basically, for some unknown reason, the cells continue to divide even after the flower forms. This results in a cluster of new buds forming in the center of the blossom. This growth disorder usually occurs in spring and though it can occur on any rose, certain varieties seem to be effected yearly. It is not harmful to the plant just annoying to the gardener.

A bit more information: Proliferation can affect other flowers such as clovers, opium poppy and members of the daisy family. Bellis perennis ‘Prolifera’ produces smaller flowers beside the main bloom. This led to its common name Hens and Chicken daisy.