A chromatic Adrian Bloom selection, this lush ferny-leafed perennial made its initial debut at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2002. Premiering rich purple hues during spring and fall plus a neat ladder-like aspect, some 27 odd-pinnately compound leaflets form a close-set dark green mound. Charming, loosely arranged, scented clusters of cup-shaped brilliant lavender-blue blooms on sturdy burgundy-colored stems rollick above. ‘Bressingham Purple’ relishes cool summer locales plus consistently moist and somewhat shady niches, but detests hot humid summers. (pp#15,367)

Blooms April–May

Size: 15" – 18" high x 15" – 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Hallmarked by clear true-blue hues, a delectable fragrance and deep yellow centers, plentiful large silky flowers are clustered atop sturdy upright stems. A compact and ferny deep green basal mound of long, finely cut alternate leaflets anchors the beautiful sterile blooms that will not reseed. ‘Northern Lights’s low, tidy mildew resistant habit prefers a bright, evenly moist, well-drained abode, detests hot humid weather and appreciates a judicious dividing each spring to ensure its longevity.

Blooms April–May.

Size: 12" – 16" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Named after King Polemon of Pontus, this genus is distinguished by fernlike foliage with nearly 20 neatly arranged leaflets, believed in Roman times to symbolize the ladder that spanned heaven and earth in Jacob’s dream.

Asserting a dark mystique, this recently introduced Polemonium cultivar is heralded for the reddish purple and bronze tones of its lush leaves. Deep-hued stems frame the lacy upright base, which transmutes a green flush when summer arrives or when grown in deep shade, and appreciates a somewhat cool, moist setting. Large silken blooms—loosely clustered, cup-shaped and plentiful—compose a violet grace note.

Blooms June–July.

Size: 2' 0" high x 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.