The scent of many of the Hybrid Musks is released freely on the air, especially on warm, humid days. This characteristic is passed down from R. multiflora. The scent can be carried far away. Helen van Pelt Wilson and Léonie Bell noted that the scent was like the hot honeyed essence of R. multiflora. The scent can be described as irresistible and un-rose like. It is like an infusion of honey and fruit, some clove, and the orris of tea rose. The vapors are entrancing and hypnotic; they parade in clouds through the air. Mixed with heliotrope and the scented hues of other candied ornaments in the garden, I confess they are a potion of bliss.

Hybrid Musks are elegant shrub roses. Some can be climbers, pillars or hedges. They are best grown freely and pruned with a light hand, allowing their individual forms to develop. Many tolerate shade. They mostly flower on short lateral and sub-lateral shoots produced from second-year or older wood. They do not regularly produce vigorous basal growths once established, this is why it is important to prune or shape judiciously. They are fine cluster roses. Their colors, often times infused with metallic notes of gold or copper, give charm to the garden. Many of the flowers in a panicle may open at once, instead of in succession.