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Description
Polemonium chartaceum, also known as smooth-leaved Jacob’s ladder or creamy-flowered Jacob’s ladder, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, particularly in Alaska, California, and Oregon. It typically grows up to 60 cm in height, with a spread of up to 45 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Polemonium |
Appearance
Polemonium chartaceum has smooth, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. Its stems are slender and upright, and they bear clusters of creamy-white to pale yellow flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and measure up to 1 cm across. They have five petals that are fused at the base, forming a bell-shaped corolla. The stamens are also fused at the base and form a prominent tube that extends beyond the petals.
Care Guide
Water
Polemonium chartaceum prefers evenly moist soil, so it requires regular watering during the growing season. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so make sure to provide good drainage.
Fertilization
Add a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak stems and foliage.
Soil
Polemonium chartaceum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight
Polemonium chartaceum prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Polemonium chartaceum is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polemonium chartaceum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Polemonium chartaceum is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, where it grows in moist, shaded areas such as streambanks, meadows, and forests. It is often found growing alongside other woodland perennials such as ferns, trilliums, and bleeding hearts.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polemonium chartaceum toxic to pets?
A: Polemonium chartaceum is not known to be toxic to pets.
Q: Can Polemonium chartaceum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Polemonium chartaceum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I divide Polemonium chartaceum?
A: Polemonium chartaceum can be divided every 3-4 years in early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can I propagate Polemonium chartaceum from cuttings?
A: Yes, Polemonium chartaceum can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Polemonium caeruleum (Jacob’s ladder)
- Polemonium reptans (creeping Jacob’s ladder)
- Polemonium viscosum (sticky Jacob’s ladder)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Polemonium chartaceum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b541
- RHS. (n.d.). Polemonium chartaceum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14204/Polemonium-chartaceum/Details
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Polemonium chartaceum. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/flowers/polemonium-chartaceum
