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.