Polemonium carneum, commonly known as Royal Jacob’s-ladder or Oregon polemonium, is a rhizomatous perennial herb native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States, specifically from Washington to Northern California, including the San Francisco Bay Area. It is typically found in moist meadows, streambanks, and open, moist forests, often at moderate elevations. This species can reach up to one meter in height and is characterized by its compound leaves with up to 21 sticky-haired leaflets and decumbent or erect stems. The bell-shaped flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, have a five-lobed corolla and come in shades of pale pink, salmon pink, yellow, or lavender to medium purple, and are quite showy, attracting pollinators and gardeners alike.

Royal Jacob’s-ladder is appreciated for its attractive flowers and is often used in ornamental gardens, especially in shaded or woodland settings. It requires moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. While it is not drought-tolerant, once established, it requires minimal maintenance. Gardeners should be aware that it can be susceptible to rust and mildew if conditions are too wet. This plant is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a relatively easy addition to a garden. It is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but as with all plants, care should be taken to manage its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0