Overview
Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun, commonly known as Jacob's ladder, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Polemoniaceae. The plant is native to North America and is found in moist woods, thickets, and meadows from Quebec and Ontario to Minnesota and Missouri, south to Georgia and Arkansas.
Description
The plant typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm and spreads through the underground stolons. The leaves are alternate, compound, with five to nine leaflets that are lanceolate, toothed, and hairy. The stem is erect, grooved, and hairy, with purplish-blue flowers growing in a loose terminal cluster. The flowers are funnel-shaped, about 1 cm in diameter, with five petals fused at the base, and five stamens.
Common Names
Aside from Jacob's ladder, Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun is also known as creeping Jacob's ladder, false Jacob's ladder, bluebell, and Greek valerian.
Uses
The plant has a long history of medicinal use by Native Americans and early European settlers as a treatment for various ailments, such as coughs, colds, fevers, and wounds. The root of the plant contains alkaloids, saponins, and glycosides, which have antipyretic, diuretic, and expectorant properties. In modern times, the plant is still used in herbal medicine primarily as a diuretic and expectorant.
Light Requirements
Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun exposure, but prolonged direct sunlight may negatively affect its growth and development. In indoor settings, it can thrive under bright fluorescent lights or grow lights.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to temperate regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for its growth and development is between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F) during the day and around 10°C (50°F) at night. It is important to note that extreme heat, above 30°C (86°F), can be damaging to this species.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun should be moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic soil with pH between 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal. It can grow in a variety of soil types including sandy loam, clay loam and even rocky soil. This plant species prefers consistently moist soil, but it is important to avoid waterlogging as it may cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun, also known as Jacob's Ladder, thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun. The plant can be propagated through seed sowing or division of established clumps in early spring or fall. To prepare for planting or division, loosen the soil and add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance soil fertility. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their spreading habit.
Watering Needs
Watering should be consistent to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry spells, it is advisable to water the plants twice a week. Deep watering is crucial in supporting the plant's extensive root system that can grow up to 6-8 inches deep. To avoid leaf scorching, water the plant at the base and avoid wetting the foliage.
Fertilization
Constant feeding is necessary for Jacob's Ladder as the plant is a heavy feeder. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 in spring and summer. Alternatively, use a blooming or flowering fertilizer with higher levels of phosphorous. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, avoiding contact with leaves, and water thoroughly.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun, but it can benefit from deadheading. Deadheading, removing spent blooms, can promote extended flowering and prevent the plant from self-seeding. To deadhead, snip off the stem below the spent flower. Otherwise, the plant can become leggy and unkempt if not pruned annually or twice per season by one-third of its height. Pruning is done in early spring when the new growth emerges.
Propagation of Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun
Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun, commonly known as creeping Jacob’s ladder, can be propagated through both sexual and asexual reproduction methods. These methods include seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division of established plants.
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun. The seeds can be harvested from the plant during the fall season when the seed pods turn brown. The pods can be collected and allowed to dry up before extracting the seeds.
Before planting, the seeds should be stratified in a cool, moist environment for approximately four to six weeks. The stratification process can be achieved by placing the seeds in a plastic bag filled with moist sand or vermiculite and storing them in the refrigerator.
Once the stratification process is completed, the seeds can be sown in seed trays or directly in the ground. The seed trays can be filled with a seedling mix and lightly compacted before placing the seeds. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of the mix, and the trays should be kept moist. The germination process takes approximately two to three weeks.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another method of propagation for Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun. This method is usually carried out during the late spring or early summer when the plant is in its active growth phase.
The cuttings should be approximately six inches long and should be taken from the non-flowering shoots of the plant. The leaves on the lower two-thirds of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting.
The cuttings should be planted in containers filled with a well-draining rooting medium and placed in an area with bright, indirect light. The containers should be kept moist and covered with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. The rooting process takes approximately three to four weeks.
Division
Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun can also be propagated by dividing established plants. This method is usually carried out during the spring or fall season.
The plant should be dug up and the root ball should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one growing point, and the roots should be kept intact. The divided sections should be replanted immediately in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Propagation of Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun requires proper care and attention. By following the appropriate propagation method, gardeners can ensure a successful outcome and promote the growth of healthy plants.
Disease Management
The Polemonium reptans L. var. villosum E.L. Braun, commonly known as Jacob’s ladder, is not usually susceptible to diseases. However, it may sometimes be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust.
To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to maintain good air circulation around the plant and ensure it is not crowded. Remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them appropriately. It also helps to water the plants at the base and not the foliage. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Rust can be managed by keeping the plant foliage dry and maintaining good air circulation. Remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them appropriately. In severe cases, apply fungicides to protect the remaining parts of the plant.
Pest Management
There are not many pests that commonly affect Jacob’s ladder. However, spider mites and slugs may be a problem.
Spider mites can be managed by increasing humidity levels around the plants and regularly spraying them with water to discourage the mites. You can also apply insecticides or beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control the population.
Slugs can be controlled by reducing damp conditions around the plants and avoiding overwatering. You can also handpick the slugs at night or use slug baits or traps.
