Red Ribbons was introduced by Kordes Roses in 1990 and made its way into the American market through Jackson and Perkins as part of the Garden Ease Collection, sold variously as Chilterns, Fiery Sensation, and Mainaufeuer. The name reflects the habit: dense, well-branched growth that spreads 4 feet wide or more while staying just 2 to 3 feet tall, ribboning across slopes or the front of wide borders with considerable effectiveness. The red double flowers measure 3 inches across and appear in spring, continuing through fall with good reliability. Small glossy leaves on prickled stems complete the plant.

Kordes bred it with hardiness in mind, and zone 4 tolerance makes it genuinely useful across a broad geography. Fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun gives the best results; fertilize in spring and summer and prune out any damaged or diseased canes in early spring. Mulch helps retain moisture through summer heat. Disease resistance is fair rather than exceptional, so good air circulation around the planting matters. Use it as a groundcover, over rocks or retaining walls, or as the trailing element in a large container.