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Description
Polemonium Eximium, also known as showy Jacob’s ladder, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Polemoniaceae. This plant species is native to the western United States, specifically in the Rocky Mountains, and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall. Its leaves are arranged alternately and pinnately compound, with 9-17 leaflets that are oblong to lanceolate in shape. Polemonium Eximium blooms from late spring to mid-summer, displaying clusters of blue-violet flowers with yellow stamens that are shaped like bells.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Polemonium |
Appearance
Polemonium Eximium is a showy herbaceous perennial with a clump-forming habit. Its stems are erect, sturdy, and covered with fine hairs. The plant’s leaves are bright green, and its pinnately compound leaves have 9-17 oblong to lanceolate leaflets, each measuring up to 2 inches long. Polemonium Eximium’s flowers are showy and blue-violet in color with yellow stamens, measuring up to 1 inch across. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and bloom from late spring to mid-summer.
Care Guide
Polemonium Eximium is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. Here are some care tips you should follow:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply at least once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Plant Polemonium Eximium in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Polemonium Eximium grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polemonium Eximium is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally suffer from leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil or overwatered. To prevent these problems, make sure to provide adequate drainage and avoid overwatering. Insects like aphids and spider mites may also infest this plant but can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Polemonium Eximium is native to the western United States, specifically in the Rocky Mountains. This plant species is commonly found in subalpine and alpine meadows, slopes, and ridges, where it thrives in moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It is also known to grow in rock crevices and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polemonium Eximium a fragrant plant?
A: No, Polemonium Eximium does not have a distinct fragrance.
Q: Can Polemonium Eximium grow in containers?
A: Yes, Polemonium Eximium can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and adequate moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polemonium Eximium?
A: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: Does Polemonium Eximium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Polemonium Eximium’s bell-shaped flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Polemonium Caeruleum
- Polemonium Vanbruntiae
- Polemonium Reptans
- Polemonium Occidentale
References
- “Polemonium eximium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282397.
- “Showy Jacob’s Ladder.” Plant Care Guide. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.plantcareguide.com/showy-jacobs-ladder/.
