Polemonium caeruleum

Jacob's ladder

Eventual height & spread

Polemonium caeruleum

Jacob's ladder

  • 9cm pot
  • £9.99
  • available to order from autumn
  • 3 × 9cm pots
  • £23.99 £8.00 each
  • available to order from autumn
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Position: full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: average
  • Flowering period: June
  • Hardiness: fully hardy


Jacob's Ladder gets its name from the arrangement of its leaves – pairs of opposite leaflets resembling a ladder. In early summer, erect stems rise up from the bright green foliage carrying clusters of bell-shaped, lavender-blue flowers.

A cottage garden favourite, Polemonium caeruleum is happiest in partial shade, and looks equally at home in a wildlife garden setting or in grass. Although it is short-lived, it self-seeds freely.


  • Garden care:
    Polemonium prefers a spot in partial shade or dappled sunlight with fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Mulch in spring with organic matter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

    Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting. After the first flush of flowers, cut back the stems to encourage a second round of blooms. In autumn, remove faded flowerheads and cut the plant back to ground level, composting the spent material.

    Avoid planting in areas with waterlogged soil over winter, as the crown may rot.
  • Goes well with