I think you're right. I was beginning to think it was some kind of Japanese Knotweed, but everything I could find about that said it had white flowers. I was starting to think maybe this was just another variety, and now I see it is. THANKS!!! Now that I know what it is, I will NOT be planting it in my yard! Thanks so much!!!

I agree but those aren't the petals. They are the sepals after the seeds have dropped. The petals are yellow and fall fairly early. The sepals go from green to bright red and the seeds turn black giving it a Mickey Mouse appearance.

Calycanthus occidentalis? western spice bush Here is a link that might be useful: western spice bush

One of my fav nurseries swears by Winnepeg Parks rose. Guy always pushes those over knockout due to their hardiness. If roses are put in the right condition they will be lush...full sun, moist but not wet soil. I wouldn't suggest boxwoods in front of the roses. The boxwoods have form and structure...use them as a backdrop/fondation. The roses are more informal and should be used in front of them, plus why would you want to hide the color? Use this link to find some other varieties http://guides.travel.msn.com/Guides/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1078607&icid=msn1078607&gt1=41000 Plant type as rose and color as red, there were tons of options. My Hero is another good one that has continous blooms.