Jacob's Ladder Polemonium caeruleum Brise d'Anjou = 'Blanjou' (PBR) (v)
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ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Jacob's Ladder 'Brise d'Anjou', or simply 'Blanjou', boasts a striking appearance with its variegated foliage. The leaves on this plant are a mix of cream and green, giving it a unique and attractive patterning. The leaves are compound, arranged in a ladder-like fashion, which is a characteristic feature of Jacob's Ladder. Each leaflet is oval-shaped and holds the variegation well. During its flowering period, 'Blanjou' produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers. These flowers are often a soft blue color, adding a delicate contrast to the creamy variegated leaves. The blooms are arranged in loose, hanging clusters, providing a soft, airy look to the plant. Overall, the variegated foliage of Jacob's Ladder 'Brise d'Anjou' combined with its charming flowers creates a visually pleasing plant that adds texture and color contrast to garden spaces. It's a cultivar that catches the eye and is often used for ornamental purposes in gardens due to its unique leaf patterning and lovely blossoms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Jacob's Ladder, Charity, Greek Valerian, Bluebell.
Common names
Polemonium caeruleum var. himalayanum, Polemonium caeruleum var. villosum, Polemonium villosum.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - 'Blanjou' adds beauty to the garden with its variegated foliage and clusters of blue or violet flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators - The flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance - Once established, it requires minimal care, making it suitable for busy gardeners or those seeking low-effort landscaping.
- Cold Tolerant - It can survive in colder climates, making it a good choice for gardens in cooler regions.
- Shade Tolerance - It can grow in partially shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Border Planting - Its compact size and attractive foliage make it ideal for border or edge plantings in gardens.
- Seasonal Interest - With its flowering season in late spring to early summer, it adds seasonal interest to the garden.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d'Anjou', commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding hues of yellow or green depending on the mordant used.
- In a garden, Jacob's Ladder can act as an indicator plant since it prefers moist, well-drained soil; if it thrives, it suggests good soil conditions for other similar plants.
- The plant can be used in companion planting to attract pollinators, which benefits the surrounding crops by improving their pollination and yield.
- Jacob's Ladder can serve an educational purpose, such as demonstrating the ladder-like leaf arrangement and the evolution of floral structure to botany students.
- The plant's distinctive foliage texture can be used in art projects, such as leaf casting or botanical prints, where its pattern leaves a unique impression.
- Gardeners might use the seed pods of Jacob's Ladder in dried flower arrangements as they hold their shape and add an interesting visual contrast.
- In landscape design, its variegated foliage can be used to create patterns or "garden quilts" when planted in mass with other foliage-variegated plants.
- When planted in a sensory garden, the plant provides a tactile experience due to the soft texture of its leaves.
- Its delicate flowers can be a source of inspiration for artists and designers, who might replicate the intricate structure in jewelry or textile patterns.
- Jacob's Ladder can be utilized in traditional folklore dances and ceremonies by including the flowers in garlands or headdresses, symbolizing ladders to the heavens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiJacob's ladder is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityJacob's ladder is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing and Medicine: The common name "Jacob's Ladder," refers to the arrangement of its leaflets which resembles the biblical ladder to heaven, symbolizing the connection between earth and heaven. This association has historically linked the plant to healing properties and its use in traditional medicine.
- Spiritualism: Given its common name and structure, Jacob's Ladder is also often associated with spiritual ascent and the journey towards enlightenment, representing the connection between the physical and metaphysical.
- Peace: The delicate blue flowers of Jacob’s Ladder can signify tranquility and peace, reflecting the serene appearance of the plant.
WaterThe Jacob's Ladder should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on climate conditions, this typically means watering once every week or two, providing around 1 to 2 gallons of water each time depending on the plant size and environmental conditions. Water should be applied directly to the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Consistent moisture is key, but be careful not to overwater as this plant does not like to sit in soggy soil.
LightJacob's Ladder prefers a spot that offers partial shade, as too much direct sun can scorch the leaves. The ideal location would receive morning sunlight and be sheltered from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. However, it can also thrive in full shade, making it a versatile choice for garden locations with varying light levels.
TemperatureJacob's Ladder thrives in a temperature range of 60°F to 75°F. It can tolerate temperatures down to about 40°F and up to around 85°F. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures outside of its comfort zone may stress the plant. It's crucial to avoid placing Jacob's Ladder in areas where temperatures can drop below freezing, as it is not tolerant of frost.
PruningJacob's Ladder should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom. Pruning can also help maintain the plant's shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy. The best time for pruning is after the first flush of flowers has faded, generally in early to mid-summer. Pruning can be repeated if there's a second bloom and at the end of the growing season to tidy up the plant before winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJacob's Ladder 'Blanjou' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing loam, peat, and some perlite or sand to enhance drainage is ideal for this cultivar.
RepottingJacob's Ladder 'Blanjou' typically does not require frequent repotting; it should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingJacob's Ladder 'Blanjou' thrives in moderate humidity levels but is generally tolerant of average home humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enrich soil with organic matter.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleJacob's Ladder 'Brise d'Anjou' ('Blanjou') begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown, germinates in a moist, well-draining soil medium. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of cotyledons followed by the first set of true leaves. As the plant grows, it enters the vegetative stage, producing distinctive variegated green and white foliage; during this phase, it develops a strong root system and leafy stems. The plant reaches maturity when it starts to produce clusters of blue-violet flowers atop the stems in late spring to early summer. After pollination, typically by bees and butterflies, seeds are formed and dispersed, starting the cycle anew. In winter, Jacob's Ladder 'Brise d'Anjou' dies back to ground level, enduring the cold season as a dormant root stock before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Jacob's Ladder 'Brise d'Anjou' is through division. This process is typically done in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, maintaining as much of the root system as possible. Gently separate the plant's crown into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the root system attached. Replant these divisions at the same depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This method not only helps create new plants but can rejuvenate older clumps that have become less vigorous over time.
