Polemonium boreale Heavenly Habit (Northern Jacobs Ladder)

Polemonium boreale ‘Heavenly Habit’ (Northern Jacob’s Ladder) is a compact, clump-forming perennial forming a low, bushy mound of fern-like, glossy green leaves. In summer, it is smothered with a profusion of lightly-scented, violet-blue flowers borne atop upright stems.

Polemonium boreale 'Heavenly Habit' (Northern Jacob's Ladder) is a compact, clump-forming perennial forming a low, bushy mound of fern-like, glossy green leaves. In summer, it is smothered with a profusion of lightly-scented, violet-blue flowers borne atop upright stems. Blooming over a long season, the delicate starry flowers are adorned with a yellow halo and a white eye. The pinnately compound leaves retain their fresh green color throughout the season. Excellent for edging, rock gardens, or in woodland settings.

  • Grows up to 10-12 in. tall (25-30 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
  • Thrives in average, medium, well-drained soils in sun or part shade. Prefers fertile, moist soils. Best with protection from hot afternoon sun, particularly in warm summer areas. Intolerant of high heat and humidity.
  • A lovely plant for beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens and containers.
  • Generally pest free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildews. Deer resistant.
  • Clip back by half in midsummer to rejuvenate, if necessary.
  • Propagate by division in spring.

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 7

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Polemonium – Jacob's Ladders
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 10"
– 1'
(25cm
– 30cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 12″
– 18″
(30cm
– 45cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Edging, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage