Versicolor Damask Rose: Historic Striped 'York and Lancaster'

The Versicolor Damask rose, known since before 1576, is the famous 'York and Lancaster' rose, bearing semi-double flowers striped and sectored in pink and white. Hybridized by Van der Gracht, it carries synonyms like Folio Variegata, Striped Damask, and Rosa damascena versicolor. A living piece of history.

Classification and Heritage

Family: Rosaceae (ro-ZAY-see-ee)
Genus: Rosa (RO-zuh)
Cultivar: 'Versicolor'
Additional names: Folio Variegata, Striped Damask, York and Lancaster
Hybridized by: Van der Gracht
Registered/Introduced: pre-1576
Synonyms: Rosa damascena bicolor, Rosa damascena variegata, Rosa damascena versicolor

This rose is a sport of the Damask rose, celebrated for its unique variegated blooms and historical symbolism.

Growth Habit and Blooms

Arching shrub 4–5 feet. Grey-green foliage. Flowers are semi-double, 2–3 inches, with random pink/white striping. Strong Damask fragrance. Once-blooming in early summer.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained.
• Watering: Moderate.
• Pruning: After bloom; remove old wood.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9.

Landscape Uses

Heritage gardens, historical collections, mixed shrub borders. The striped flowers are unique in arrangements.