Apricot Delight Jacob's Ladder Polemonium carneum 'Apricot Delight'
ABOUT
Apricot Delight, derived from the Polemonium carneum species, presents a charming display in the garden. The plant boasts feather-like foliage that creates an airy and delicate texture. The leaves are typically arranged in a ladder-like fashion, giving rise to its common nickname, Jacob's Ladder. The foliage color can be described as a vibrant green which forms a lush mound that serves as a backdrop to the star attraction of the plant: its flowers. The blooms of Apricot Delight exude a soft, pastel hue, reminiscent of apricot shades with subtle peachy overtones. These bell-shaped flowers are arranged in clusters that rise above the foliage on slender, upright stems, adding a layered dimension to the plant's visual display. They appear to dance in the breeze and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding dynamism to their serene beauty. The overall impression that Apricot Delight gives is one of a gentle and soothing presence in the garden, with its delicate blossoms and fern-like leaves creating a whimsical and cottage-like appeal. The plant lends itself to a variety of garden designs, as it adds both color and fine texture to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae.
Synonyms
Apricot Delight Jacob's Ladder, Apricot Delight Polemonium.
Common names
Polemonium carneum.
ToxicityTo humans
Jacob's Ladder does not have a well-documented profile for toxicity to humans. Most sources do not report it as a commonly recognized toxic plant, which suggests that it is unlikely to cause harm if accidentally ingested in small quantities. However, like with any plant not meant for consumption, it is possible for individuals to experience some degree of gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It's important to note that some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain plants, so it's always a good practice to avoid eating plants not known to be safe and to seek medical attention if any adverse reactions occur after handling or ingesting unknown plants.
To pets
Jacob's Ladder is also not commonly listed as a toxic plant for pets, which implies that it is not highly toxic to common household animals like cats and dogs. However, as with humans, ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal issues in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet is known to have eaten Jacob's Ladder, or any adverse symptoms appear after possible ingestion, it's advisable to contact a veterinarian for guidance. Always err on the side of caution and prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not explicitly known to be safe for them.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Apricot
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetically Pleasing: The Polemonium carneum 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, features delicate bell-shaped apricot flowers that add soft color and visual interest to garden spaces.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its blooms are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aiding in plant pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Jacob's Ladder is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once established, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is capable of thriving in partially shaded environments where other plants may not grow as well, making it versatile for different garden settings.
- Cottage Garden Charm: With its traditional cottage garden appearance, it contributes to creating a charming and rustic garden aesthetics.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides seasonal interest in the garden with its flowering in late spring to early summer.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural fabric dye - The colorful flowers of 'Apricot Delight' Jacob's ladder can be used to produce a soft, apricot-colored dye for fabrics like wool and silk.
- In pressed flower crafts - The delicate blooms are suitable for pressing and can be used to create decorative bookmarks, greeting cards, or in scrapbooking.
- As a calming agent in sachets - The scented flowers can be dried and added to sachets to provide a gentle, calming fragrance to drawers and closets.
- Educational purposes - It can be used in gardens and greenhouses for educational demonstrations on pollination and the lifecycle of perennial plants.
- In butterfly gardens - Attracting a variety of butterflies, this plant serves as an important nectar source in butterfly habitats.
- For potpourri mixtures - The flowers, when dried, can add color and a mild scent to homemade potpourri blends.
- As a photography subject - With its unique apricot-colored flowers, 'Apricot Delight' Jacob's ladder is an excellent subject for macro photography enthusiasts.
- In companion planting - It can be used in garden design, playing a role as a companion plant that complements other perennials with contrasting colors or foliage.
- For creating naturalistic garden designs - The plant can be a key addition to gardens aiming to replicate the understated beauty found in wild landscapes.
- In educational pollinator gardens - By planting 'Apricot Delight' Jacob's ladder, one can teach about the importance of pollinators and their relationships with specific plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Jacob's Ladder is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Jacob's Ladder is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Polemonium, commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, has been used in traditional herbal medicine, symbolizing physical and emotional healing properties.
- Connection with Angels: The name Jacob's Ladder is biblically inspired, referring to the ladder leading to heaven in Jacob's dream, symbolizing a connection with the divine or messages from angels.
- Humility: Some interpretations suggest that Jacob's Ladder symbolizes humility, as Jacob himself was humbled in the presence of the divine connection represented by the ladder in his dream.
WaterJacobs Ladder 'Apricot Delight' should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During the growing season, it may need water once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. Ensure that the plant receives approximately 1 gallon of water each time to saturate the soil around the roots. In cooler months or during dormancy, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
LightJacobs Ladder 'Apricot Delight' thrives in partial shade to full sun. The ideal location is one where the plant can receive morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. An east-facing or north-facing garden spot would be suitable for optimal growth.
TemperatureJacobs Ladder 'Apricot Delight' prefers moderate temperatures and can survive in a temperature range from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can tolerate brief periods outside this range. The ideal temperature conditions for this plant are within 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure healthy growth and flowering.
PruningPruning Jacobs Ladder 'Apricot Delight' is necessary to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers. Prune lightly after blooming to deadhead and promote a second bloom. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOregon Jacob's Ladder thrives best in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and sand or perlite can create these conditions, promoting healthy root growth.
RepottingOregon Jacob's Ladder does not require frequent repotting; it should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingOregon Jacob's Ladder favors moderate humidity levels, similar to its native woodland habitat, although it is quite adaptable and does not have precise humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light, moist soil, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, enrich soil, keep moist, protect from high winds.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cyclePolemonium carneum 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as Apricot Delight Jacob's Ladder, begins its life as a seed which, when sown, will germinate given suitable conditions of warmth and moisture. After germination, it develops into a seedling with its first set of true leaves, continuing its growth to form a rosette-style base. The plant then enters a vegetative stage, producing stems and a lush foliage of pinnately compound leaves. In late spring to early summer, it reaches the flowering stage, producing clusters of bell-shaped, apricot-colored flowers that attract pollinators and may lead to seed formation if pollination occurs. Following the bloom period, if fertilization is successful, seeds develop and mature, eventually being dispersed nearby or collected for future propagation. With the onset of colder weather, the plant may die back, retreating to the ground level or its root system, where it becomes dormant over winter, especially in colder climates, and then it resumes growth in the following spring, thus completing its annual life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Polemonium carneum 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as Jacob's Ladder, is a perennial plant that can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. Propagation by division is best done in the early spring or fall. To propagate Jacob's Ladder by division, carefully dig up an established plant and gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure that each new section has a portion of the root system intact. These sections can then be replanted in well-prepared soil, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly and maintain consistent moisture as the divisions establish themselves. This method not only helps to propagate new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous over time.
