Growing Polemonium (Jacob's Ladder)

PRONUNCIATION: pole-mone'-ee-um

DESCRIPTION: Hardiness: 4-8 S&W. Height 12"+. Foliage appears in spring with cream edges that turn pink in cool weather or in full sun. In May and June, loose stalks of bell-shaped blue flowers make their appearance. Forms a clump 15-18" across.

CULTURE: Full sun to part shade. Moist, humusy soil with good drainage. Space 12-15" apart. Fertilize lightly once in early spring with 5-10-5 or 10-10-10.

COMPS: Combine with Hosta, ferns, Heuchera.

SUGGUESTED USE: In shade or wildflower gardens, along the edges of woodland.

PROBLEM: Few problems if planted in well-drained soil and not overwatered.