Miniature rose plant named `Macpluto`

The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of rose plant of the miniature rose class which was originated by crossing as seed parent the cultivar `Matangi` and as pollen parent the cultivar `Stars 'n Stripes` (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 4,029). It is a new, almost continuously and profusely blooming rose plant, of the miniature class, having well formed buds with hybrid tea shape and open-faced flowers with petals slightly cupped and reflexing, with contrasting red and white stripes. The flowers are pleasantly highlighted by their placement over a healthy and dense crop of glossy, deep green foliage on an upright and vigorously growing, well branched plant.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of rose plant 
of the miniature rose class which was originated by me by crossing, as the 
seed parent, the rose known as `Matangi` and as pollen parent the rose 
plant known as `Stars 'n Stripes` (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 4,029). Upon 
recognition of the attributes of this plant within the progeny of the 
stated cross, it was selected for further testing and observation. Upon 
recognition that this plant was novel and expressed numerous superior and 
desirable traits as described below, the plant of this application was 
assigned an international recognition name of `Macpluto`. This plant has 
been asexually reproduced by me or under my direction by cuttings and by 
budding in Washington County, Oreg. Such asexual reproduction has 
conclusively shown that all distinguishing characteristics of this plant 
come true to form, are firmly fixed, and are faithfully transmitted 
through succeeding propagations. 
Specimens described below were grown in Washington County, Oreg. 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
The new plant of this invention contains a number of outstanding attributes 
in combination which set it apart from all other plants of the miniature 
rose market class. Such characteristics may be summarized as follows: 
A new and conspicuously attractive flower having red and white striped 
petals. 
Bud form similar to that typical of hybrid teas. 
Open-faced flowers which open to a substantially flat form with petals 
slightly cupped and reflexing, set off in full bloom by golden yellow 
stamens. 
Petals of gently rounded shape and of pleasing characteristicly contrasting 
and random patterns of red and white stripes. 
A plant which is highly remontant and blooms almost continuously and 
profusely. 
Flowers formed singly or in sprays of 3 to 5 placed over a healthy and 
dense crop of glossy, deep green foliage on an upright, compact, but 
vigorously growing, and well branched plant.