Proliferation. Nothing to worry about. Some roses do it no matter what you do (or don't) do. Some seem triggered by too much nitrogen. Others seem to be triggered by weather changes or extremes. It is also a common "fault" carried through the breeding line of Souv. de Claudius Pernet, for whatever reason. Don't worry about it as it is simply part of the characteristics expressed by many roses.

Ralph Moore created a little red mini which did it all the time, every flower. He planned on using it as a premium plant to be given away with magazine subscriptions. He considered it a novelty because it resembled a red salad bowl with a lettuce salad in it. I raised one which did it frequently and was quite attractive. Unfortunately, the plant under it wasn't very good. Tequilla Sunrise did it all the time for me. Many others do, too. Kim

Here is a link that might be useful: Queen of the Desert

proliferation sounds better than a vegetative center. That is what I have called it.

I really don't see it very often.

Sammy

*phew!* Thanks for the quick response and thorough explanation. After one of my roses got rosette and had to be put out of its misery (RIP Elegant Beauty), I've been a bit overly nervous.

In your area it was probably caused by the changing weather.

I like that Queen of the Dessert, Kim. Shame it wasn't a good grower.

It's completely understandable! No worries. Thanks, Seil. I wish it had been less susceptible to rust. Otherwise, it had gorgeous new foliage and wonderful flowers. Too bad, indeed. I actually liked its "cresting". Kim

Vegetative centers give me the creeps.