Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia

Promoting environmentally sound gardening practices for over 35 years!

Phlox Subulata (moss pink) in landscape. Photo © Elaine Mills

GROUND COVER: Polemonium reptans (Jacob’s Ladder)

Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian leaves in March
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian leaves and reddish stems in March
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian flowers in March
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian flowers in April
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian - Flower detail
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian fruit capsules in May
Polemonium reptans, Jacob’s Ladder, Greek Valerian in residential landscape in June

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic

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In the Mid-Atlantic Region, this attractive wildflower is most common in Pennsylvania. In Virginia its occurrence is spotty, although it is native to Fairfax County. At home in moist woods and along stream banks, this Phlox family member features leaflets arranged like rungs on a ladder (the ladder dreamt of by Jacob in the Bible story), thus the common name.

Do you know the name of the part of this plant that makes sure its blossoms are oriented to attract pollinators? 

Learn more about Polemonium reptans and pedicel…

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