Royal Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium carneum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
20 inches
Width
20 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Polemonium carneum, commonly known as royal Jacob's ladder or great polemonium, is a clump-forming perennial featuring fern-like, pinnately compound leaves and clusters of bell-shaped, salmon-pink to apricot flowers in late spring to early summer. This species is distinguished by its unique flower coloration within the genus, displaying shades of salmon-pink, apricot, or cream, which often age to pale lilac. It has attractive, fern-like compound foliage.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Plant in well-drained loam soil in partial sun for optimal health.
- Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist during the growing season.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage lush foliage.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
Pro Tip
Use a shade cloth during hot summer months to prevent leaf scorch.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Refrain from heavy pruning during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Royal Jacob's Ladder questions
What zones can Royal Jacob's Ladder grow in?
Royal Jacob's Ladder is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Royal Jacob's Ladder deer resistant?
Yes — Royal Jacob's Ladder is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Royal Jacob's Ladder bloom?
Royal Jacob's Ladder typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Royal Jacob's Ladder need full sun?
Royal Jacob's Ladder does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Polemonium to compare
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Polemonium boreale 'Heavenly Habit'
Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers
Polemonium reptans 'Golden Feathers'
Jacob's Ladder Stairway to Heaven
Polemonium reptans 'Stairway to Heaven'
Jacob's Ladder Touch of Class
Polemonium reptans 'Touch of Class'
Heaven Scent Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium 'Heaven Scent'
Yezo Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium yezoense 'Purple Rain Strain'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Royal Jacob's Ladder with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
