Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers
Polemonium reptans 'Golden Feathers'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Polemonium reptans, commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, is a perennial herb with graceful, fern-like foliage and clusters of bell-shaped, blue to lavender flowers that cascade in a ladder-like arrangement. The 'Golden Feathers' cultivar features striking golden-yellow foliage that adds vibrant color and texture, making it particularly attractive in shaded garden borders and woodland settings.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination, about 2-3 weeks
- Transplant seedlings when they are 3 inches tall
- Place in partial shade for best foliage color
- Water regularly, especially in dry periods
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Use well-draining, humus-rich soil and provide partial shade for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Divide clumps every few years to promote health
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t place in full sun, as it may scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing, as it prefers lean soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| 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
Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers questions
What zones can Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers grow in?
Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers deer resistant?
Yes — Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers bloom?
Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers need full sun?
Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers does best in part shade.
More Polemonium to compare
Heavenly Habit Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium boreale 'Heavenly Habit'
Royal Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium carneum
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
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Jacob's Ladder Golden Feathers 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.
