It is a variety of character very different from the general series of English Roses, being rather nearer to Species Roses than to Old Roses, and more natural and shrubby in its growth. A striking crimson red, the individual flowers can be described as shallow cupped, opening in informal rosettes; the petals reflect quickly as the flowers age. They are held by medium-sized heads; the individual flowers nod prettily on the stem. They have an Old Rose scent with a strong lemon zest character. It forms a strong and rather informal shrub. Named after Canterbury Cathedral.