Jacob's Ladder Polemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope' (v)
ABOUT
Polemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope' is a visually striking plant that boasts a medley of colors in its foliage. Its leaves are compound, with leaflets arranged on each side of a central stem, similar to a feather. Each leaflet has a lance shape, coming to a soft point. The foliage exhibits a rich mosaic of colors throughout the growing season, ranging from creamy yellow, bright green to deep burgundy. This blend of hues gives the impression of a multicolored kaleidoscope, which is where the plant gets its name. Adding to its appeal, Polemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope' produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that create a stunning contrast with the foliage. The flowers are typically a vibrant shade of purple or blue, hanging delicately from arched stems, inviting admiration from passersby and pollinators alike such as bees and butterflies. The overall appearance of the plant is lush and decorative, making it an attractive addition to a variety of garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Jacob's Ladder, Kaleidoscope Jacob's Ladder, Variegated Greek Valerian.
Common names
Polemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope'.
ToxicityTo humans
Jacob's ladder is generally not considered toxic to humans and is not known to cause serious harm if ingested. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. There is no widespread evidence of significant toxicity in humans due to ingestion of Jacob's ladder.
To pets
Jacob's ladder is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. While it is not known to be particularly hazardous, it is always wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants as they might still cause mild gastrointestinal irritation or an allergic reaction in some animals. Close observation is recommended if a pet has consumed any part of the plant, and consulting with a veterinarian if any adverse symptoms appear is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Polemonium 'Kaleidoscope' offers variegated leaves that add visual interest to garden spaces with their mix of green and cream colors.
- Colorful Flowers: It produces clusters of bell-shaped purple or blue flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden.
- Pollinator Friendly: The blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Ease of Care: This cultivar is known for being relatively easy to grow and maintain, which is ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Shade Tolerance: It can tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile choice for different light conditions in a landscape.
- Seasonal Interest: Polemonium 'Kaleidoscope' has a prolonged flowering season in late spring to early summer, contributing to the garden's seasonal interest.
- Compact Size: It remains a compact plant, which is perfect for small gardens or for use in borders and containers.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some garden plants, it is non-invasive, so it will not likely crowd out other plant life in the surrounding area.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography backdrop: The variegated leaves of Polemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope' provide a unique and vibrant background for macro photography.
- Education: Used as a specimen in botany classes to teach about plant variegation and genetics.
- Culinary decoration: Edible flowers can be used to embellish and add color to salads and desserts.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the plant's striking appearance as a muse for paintings, drawings, and textile patterns.
- Literary inspiration: Writers sometimes reference the beauty of Jacob's Ladder foliage and flowers in poetry and prose.
- Companion planting: Can be planted alongside vegetables as a companion plant to attract pollinators to the garden.
- Crafting: Dried flowers can be used in scrapbooking, pressed flower art, or as a natural decoration for handmade cards.
- Dye source: The plant's parts could potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or yarns.
- Holiday decoration: Fresh or dried Jacob's Ladder flowers can add a unique element to holiday wreaths and floral arrangements.
- Children's education: Used in school gardens to help children learn about the lifecycle of plants and the importance of biodiversity.
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- Balance: The Polemonium, commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, symbolizes balance due to its evenly pinnate leaflets resembling the rungs of a ladder, which leads to the concept of ascension and equilibrium.
- Connection: Jacob's Ladder also represents the connection between heaven and earth, a symbolism that is derived from the biblical story of Jacob and the dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, suggesting spiritual thought and enlightenment.
- Honesty: It is associated with honesty, likely linking the plant's straightforward growth habit with the virtue of straightforwardness in human behavior.
- Healing: In some traditions, Jacob's Ladder is believed to possess healing properties, thus symbolizing recovery and the restoration of health.
WaterThe Jacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' prefers moderately moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to maintain consistent moisture. Depending on climate conditions, this likely means watering approximately once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. During hot, dry spells, you might need to water twice a week. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging. It's important to water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases.
LightJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. The ideal spot for this plant would be under the light canopy of large trees where it receives filtered sunlight or in an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. Protecting the plant from intense afternoon sun helps to avoid scorching of the leaves and ensures the foliage keeps its vibrant colors.
TemperatureJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' is hardy in cool to moderate temperatures and can survive temperatures down to about 20°F. The ideal growing temperature ranges from 60°F to 75°F during the day. High temperatures above 90°F should be avoided, as they can stress the plant and cause damage to the foliage.
PruningJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' should be pruned to remove dead or damaged foliage and to promote bushier growth. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooming. Remove any dead lant material at the end of the growing season to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' thrives best in a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend garden soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
RepottingJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for root growth, ideally in the spring before the onset of new growth.
Humidity & MistingJacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to average household humidity. It thrives when humidity is maintained around 50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered spot, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cyclePolemonium yezoense 'Kaleidoscope', commonly known as Variegated Jacob's Ladder, begins with seed germination, typically in the spring when soil temperatures are cool and consistently moist. The seedlings develop into a clump of basal foliage, with variegated leaves that feature streaks or margins of cream and green. As the plant matures, upright stems emerge from the foliage, reaching heights of 12 to 18 inches, and in late spring to early summer, clusters of bell-shaped, blue flowers bloom atop these stems. After flowering, the plant produces seed pods which, once dried, release seeds to propagate the next generation. In autumn, the above-ground parts of the plant die back with the onset of colder temperatures, while the roots overwinter in a dormant state underground. With the return of favorable conditions in the following spring, the plant regrows from its perennial rootstock, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Jacob's Ladder 'Kaleidoscope' is typically propagated by division in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from the soil and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each new section has a portion of the root system. Each division can then be replanted into moist, well-draining soil, spaced at least 18 inches (approximately 45.7 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This simple method helps to maintain the variegated patterns and characteristics of 'Kaleidoscope', ensuring that the new plants are true to the parent.
