Polemonium reptans
Jacobs Ladder / Greek Valerian
Sustainable Landscaping with Native Plants
“If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.”
Marcus Tullius Cicero, Roman Statesman
Polemonium Reptans, also known by the names Jacob’s ladder or Greek Valerian, is a perennial woodland plant native to northern, high elevation regions like most of North America and Europe. The beautiful leaves and the clusters of flowers arise on separate stalks. A smooth, weak-stemmed plant with bell shaped flowers that form in loose clusters. It’s blooms consist of a bright and brilliant blue/purple shade, with great contrast coming from it’s yellow stamens.
Growing Jacob’s Ladder
Greek valerian will do best in shaded areas, 
and will not fare as well in hot areas with lots of sun. It does best in zones 4 to 8. It is comparable to hostas, as it will grow best in areas with moist, richer and well drained soil. They should be placed at least 1/2 in. to 1 in. apart. While it can tolerate full sun, it will not reach it’s full potential and may be more susceptible to problems. You should deadhead Greek valerian every spring, after the plants have flowered which is usually around April to June. You should also cut them down completely before every winter strikes.
Slugs are the number one pest affecting Jacob’s ladder. One great natural solution is diatomaceous earth, simply sprinkle some of the leaves to keep any slugs from tearing up the succulent leaves. They are deer resistant, so you won’t have to worry about your new favorite plant getting eaten up. They’re also great for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies and birds to your garden if you’re looking to attract more this year.
Greek valerian is a self sowing plant, and may spread around the garden once you plant it. It can reach to about 3 feet in height at most. It can add plenty of color to your garden, and is a great plant to have if you’re looking to add rare shades of blue to your nature, which are quite rare to find in plants.
There are several varieties available, such as Album, which has white flowers, or Bambino Blue, which has blue flowers but with shorter stalks.
Let us know if you plan to use this beautiful native plant this year in your shade gardens. Greek valerian is a great addition to any shade garden looking to bring in some extra visitors this year, while making the garden look great at the same time.
Lincoln Landscaping of Franklin Lakes offers complete
organic landscaping, lawn care, turf and property management services.
Lincoln Landscaping “The Natural Choice”
Mike Kolenut President & CEO
https://lincolnlandscapinginc.com
(201) 848-9699
