Jacob's ladder - Polemonium reptans (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Jacob's ladder

Also known as: Greek valerian, American abscess root, False jacob's ladder, Stairway to heaven

Jacob's ladder is named for the arrangement of its delicate leaves into ladder-shaped arrays. However, its real attraction is its delightful summer flowers in deep shades of blue. This native perennial thrives in woodsy areas that receive part shade with rich, well-draining soil. Jacob's ladder or Polemonium reptans makes a great plant for rain gardens, as well.

Scientific classification

Species

Jacob's ladder (Polemonium reptans)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

50 cm

Plant Height

Blue

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Jacob's ladder

Distribution of Jacob's ladder

Distribution Map

Jacob's ladder is a plant with a native range primarily in eastern regions of North America. It has since been introduced and naturalized in parts of Europe. The species is also cultivated in various locations for its ornamental value.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich woods, damp ground, shady river banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Jacob's ladder is a far-flung decorative plant found in rock gardens and wildflower gardens. It spreads quickly and makes a good ground cover or border plant, while its bright blue blossoms make it a wonderful showy plant in shady garden beds. The blooms last through spring and summer, and hungry deer will generally leave it alone.

Symbolism

Grace and elegance, wealth, please come down

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Jacob's ladder, including the following common varieties :

Spreading jacob's ladder 'Heaven Scent'Spreading jacob's ladder 'Stairway to Heaven'

Quickly Identify Jacob's ladder

Pinnately compound leaves resembling a ladder structure with 7-17 oblong leaflets.

Delicate blue to violet flowers in loose clusters, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter.

Light green stems with a subtle red tint, thin and sprawling, around 0.1 inches (2-3 mm) in diameter.

Prefers cooler climates, sensitive to high heat and humidity, thriving in shade to part-shade environments.

Clump-forming plant reaching up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall, propagating by seed and rhizomatous growth.

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Care Guide for Jacob's ladder

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Jacob's ladder prefers consistent moisture, thriving with weekly watering while avoiding waterlogging. Though moderately drought-tolerant, it flourishes in evenly moist soil. Typically grown outdoors, it benefits from rainwater, enhancing its hydration and supporting a natural growth cycle.

Fertilize: For jacob's ladder, apply balanced fertilizer in spring and monthly during the growing season. Taper off in late summer to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm jacob's ladder. Use slow-release or water-soluble formulations, ensuring proper incorporation into soil to maintain health and resilience.

Pruning: Jacob's ladder is a herbaceous perennial featuring bell-shaped flowers and ladder-like foliage. Prune in early to mid-spring and trim spent flowers post-blooming to enhance growth and prevent seeding. Use clean, sharp tools for pruning to avoid damage and disease, ensuring optimal health and flowering.

Propagation: Jacob's ladder propagates best in Spring via sowing. Success is indicated by new growth and young leaves. Utilizing well-draining soil is essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot jacob's ladder every 2-3 years in early spring using a medium-sized pot with good drainage. After repotting, maintain moist soil and place jacob's ladder in filtered light. It is forgiving of occasional missed waterings and thrives with consistent care.

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Images of Jacob's ladder

Distribution of Jacob's ladder

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Jacob's ladder

Care Guide for Jacob's ladder

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