Polemonium reptans

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Polemonium Reptans 4 Polemonium Reptans 3 Polemonium Reptans 2 Polemonium Reptans Polemonium Reptans 5 Polemonium Reptans 6

Polemonium reptans

Common Name: Jacob's Ladder

Jacob’s Ladder is a delicate woodland perennial that grows 12 to 18 inches tall, forming clumps of ladder-like compound leaves. Clusters of bell-shaped, pale blue to lavender flowers bloom in spring, attracting early-season pollinators. This species is found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded streambanks. It thrives in shaded gardens, woodland plantings, and naturalized understory plantings, providing soft texture and early-season color.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 18
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 18
Bloom month(s) May, June, July
Bloom Color or Type Blue
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.