Polemonium reptans
The name “Polemonium” refers to King Polemon of Pontus. This is the type genus of the Phlox family (Polemoniaceae). The species epithet “reptans” means “creeping” referring to the creeping habit of this plant. The leaves are pinnately compound, resembling a ladder, referring to a ladder seen in a dream by the biblical Jacob: thus the name Jacob’s ladder.
| Scientific Name: | Polemonium reptans |
| Synonym: | |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Common Name: | Jacob's Ladder |
| Authority: | Linnaeus |
| Etymology: | |
| C Value: | 5 |
| Wetness: | FAC |
| # of Species in Genus in Illinois: | 1 |
| Duration: | Perennial |
| Reproduction: | Monoecious |
| Flower Type: | Perfect |
| Flower Shape: | |
| Flower # of Parts: | |
| Flower Color: | Purple, Blue |
| Growth Habit: | Forb |
| Leaf Arrangement: | Alternate, Basal |
| Leaf Type: | Pinnate Compound |
| Leaf Shape: | |
| Leaf Shape Term: | |
| Leaf Margin: | Entire |
| Leaf Toothing: | Entire |
| Stem Surface: | |
| Trunk/Bark: | |
| Armature: | |
| Twig Characteristics: | |
| Habitat: | |
| Distribution: | BONAP Distribution Map |
| Status (State): | Not Listed |
| Status (Federal): | Not Listed |
| ID Tips: | The bell-shaped flowers and Compound leaves provide Jacob's Ladder with a distinctive appearance. |
| Gee Whiz: | |
| Humor: | |
| More Info: | Illinois Wildflowers Search |