Contents
Description
Polemonium Reptans, also known as Creeping Jacob’s Ladder, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide. Polemonium Reptans is a low-maintenance plant that can add an elegant touch to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Polemonium |
| Species: | Polemonium reptans |
Appearance
Polemonium Reptans has small, blue, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The leaves are compound, with 7–15 leaflets that are lance-shaped and grow up to 3 inches long. The foliage is green and has a lacy texture. Polemonium Reptans is a clump-forming plant that spreads by rhizomes. It has a delicate appearance and can add a soft, airy feel to any garden.
Care Guide
Polemonium Reptans is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Polemonium Reptans prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Polemonium Reptans does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is all that is needed.- Soil: Polemonium Reptans prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0–6.5.- Sunlight: Polemonium Reptans prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but too much sun can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Polemonium Reptans is hardy in USDA zones 3–8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polemonium Reptans is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves of Polemonium Reptans, causing a white, powdery coating on the foliage. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the foliage of Polemonium Reptans. To prevent slugs and snails, use a slug bait or set up beer traps.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the foliage. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and use a miticide if necessary.
Habitat
Polemonium Reptans is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States. It grows in moist, shady areas such as woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. Polemonium Reptans can also be grown in gardens as a ground cover or border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polemonium Reptans a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Polemonium Reptans is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: Can Polemonium Reptans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Polemonium Reptans can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polemonium Reptans?
A: Polemonium Reptans only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring.
Q: Can Polemonium Reptans tolerate drought?
A: No, Polemonium Reptans prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Related Plants
– Polemonium caeruleum (Jacob’s Ladder)- Polemonium boreale (Boreal Jacob’s Ladder)- Polemonium vanbruntiae (Van Brunt’s Jacob’s Ladder)
References
– “Polemonium reptans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 5, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h720.- “Creeping Jacob’s Ladder.” Fine Gardening. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/creeping-jacobs-ladder-polemonium-reptans.
