Wild About Flowers
Polemonium acutiflorum - Tall Jacob's Ladder
Polemonium acutiflorum - Tall Jacob's Ladder
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Tall Jacob's Ladder features delicate, fern-like foliage that adds a soft texture to the landscape, while clusters of nodding, bell-shaped blue and occasionally white flowers bloom from late spring to early summer. The mildly sweet, floral-scented flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, particularly in humid or damp conditions. Thriving in consistently moist soils, this hardy native excels in rain gardens, streamside plantings, and naturalized landscapes. While it produces abundant seeds, it can be easily managed by deadheading before seeds ripen. With its elegant form and showy flowers, it is both a beautiful and functional addition to any planting.
A graceful, moisture-loving perennial, Tall Jacob's Ladder thrives in wet meadows, riparian areas, and shaded woodland edges, making it an excellent choice for self-sustaining landscapes. It contributes height, movement, soil stabilization, and ecological value, enhancing both biodiversity and visual appeal. While deer may browse tender shoots in spring, the plant typically recovers quickly and is generally avoided once mature, offering moderate resistance to grazing.
Bloom Times & Plant Sizes
Bloom Times & Plant Sizes
Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom. The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.
Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer
Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer
The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.
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Plant Specifics
Seeds Per Pack
Seeds Per Package: 35
Light Conditions
- Part Shade
- Sun
Soil Conditions
- Moist
- Rich
- Loam
- Well Drained
- Clay
- Seasonally Moist
Height
- 12" - 24"
- 24" - 36"
Width
- 12" - 24"
- 24" - 36"
Bloom Colour
- Blue
- White
Month of Bloom
- June
- July
- August
Vigorousness
- Fast
- Aggressive
Deer Resistance
- Moderate
Features
- Butterflies
- Bees
- Fragrant
- Long Bloom Time
- Fall Color
- Urban Spaces
- Rural Spaces
- Medicinal Properties
- Good in Containers
Chinook Exposure
- Moderate
Distribution Info
Native to northwestern North America, Tall Jacob's Ladder is found in western Canada, from BC, to MB, and in, YT, and the NT, extending into Alaska and the northern U.S.. Found in moist meadows, riparian zones, wet tundra, and montane regions, often thriving in cool, high-latitude and high-elevation environments.
Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info
Indigenous groups have used Polemonium acutiflorum for medicinal purposes, particularly as an infusion or poultice for skin conditions, fevers, and inflammation.