Polemonium caeruleum
Jacob's ladder
Jacob's Ladder gets its name from the arrangement of its leaves – pairs of opposite leaflets resembling a ladder. In early summer, erect stems rise up from the bright green foliage carrying clusters of bell-shaped, lavender-blue flowers.
A cottage garden favourite, Polemonium caeruleum is happiest in partial shade, and looks equally at home in a wildlife garden setting or in grass. Although it is short-lived, it self-seeds freely.
A cottage garden favourite, Polemonium caeruleum is happiest in partial shade, and looks equally at home in a wildlife garden setting or in grass. Although it is short-lived, it self-seeds freely.
How to care for Polemonium caeruleum:
Polemonium prefers a spot in partial shade or dappled sunlight with fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Mulch in spring with organic matter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting. After the first flush of flowers, cut back the stems to encourage a second round of blooms. In autumn, remove faded flowerheads and cut the plant back to ground level, composting the spent material.
Avoid planting in areas with waterlogged soil over winter, as the crown may rot.
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting. After the first flush of flowers, cut back the stems to encourage a second round of blooms. In autumn, remove faded flowerheads and cut the plant back to ground level, composting the spent material.
Avoid planting in areas with waterlogged soil over winter, as the crown may rot.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.8m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
9cm pot
£9.99
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
3 × 9cm pots
£23.99
£8.00 each
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
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