Protected Series: HEAVENLY HABIT
Zone: 3
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN JACOBS LADDER
Polemonium reptans 'Stairway to Heaven' is a celebrated variegated selection and a premier member of the Heavenly Habit® series. It is highly sought after for its stunning, cream-margined foliage that emerges with a distinct pink flush in the cool temperatures of early spring. As the season progresses, the tri-color effect matures into a crisp green and white, forming a lush, mounded clump that stays about 12 to 15 inches tall. In late spring, the plant is topped with clusters of pale, sky-blue bell-shaped flowers that provide a soft contrast to the bright, variegated leaves, making it an excellent focal point for brightening up darker areas of the landscape.
For its ideal spot, 'Stairway to Heaven' should be situated in partial shade, as the white edges of the leaves are sensitive to intense, direct sunlight and may scorch if left unprotected. It thrives in rich, organic soil that is consistently moist yet well-drained; maintaining even moisture is key to keeping the variegation looking fresh through the heat of the summer. It is notably more robust and heat-tolerant than many other variegated Jacob's Ladders, though it still appreciates a mulch layer to keep its root zone cool. To keep the plant looking its best, simply remove spent flower stalks and trim away any foliage that may occasionally revert to solid green to maintain the integrity of the series' signature variegation.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
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To help this plant settle in and thrive, we recommend these standard planting practices: Plant in moist, fertile soil with partial shade. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering. Divide and replant every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering.
Available cultivars in this genus:
