The bloom color and its faded color will improve with time. If memory serves me right mine faded to a pinkish white. Don't know if a hotter climate would make a difference or not.

It is a unique color & I find that a lot of Dr. Buck roses, especially any with yellow-orange-peach tones in them, have their color fade out to a "muddy, flat color as they age. That is one of the traits of several Dr. Buck's rose that I dislike. DD was not happy with my z4 winters & never was a vigorous grower here so may do better in your area.

Mine starts out with a red bud, opens to dark pink with tan center, fades to all lavender. It might age differently in heat, but newly open should have dark pink with tan. Search for photos in the Rose Gallery forum.

Photos from the Rose Gallery:

The beautiful Distant Drums...

How's this for a "Distant Drums"?

BEAUTIFUL! My bloom looked pretty close to that at the beginning. I chose it just because of the amazing color scheme! Here's hoping it starts to fade more 'prettily' as it matures. Thanks for that link. I can only imagine how gorgeous those bushes are now inn 2016!

Pappu was solely responsible for the sale of a few thousand roses every time he posted a photo. Take a bow wherever you are Pappu. Hope life is treating you well.

As far as where is Pappu and the roses. Last I heard he/she moved and left the roses behind. I certainly hope the new home owner loved roses.

Wow, I would cry to leave that behind!

Good to know!