Jacob’s ladder is a favorite for woodland gardens because of its deer resistance, disease resistance, shade tolerance, and its lovely clusters of blue flowers in late spring. In addition, “Heaven Scent” has grape-scented flowers. Fern-like leaves emerge in spring with a burgundy tint and form a mound about one foot high. As the summer progresses the leaves change to a shade of green that is particularly attractive with blue hostas. ‘Heaven Scent’ can take more sun than other varieties of Jacob’s ladder as long as it has plenty of moisture especially during hot dry spells. Use in a border or as a ground cover.
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Bloom: Loose clusters of grape-scented blue flowers are borne on 18” stems in late spring.
Foliage: Pinnate leaves emerge in spring with burgundy tint and form a mound of green foliage about one foot high as summer progresses.
Size: 18-24” H x 24” W
Light: Shade; full sun with plenty of moisture
Soil: Fertile to average, moist, well-drained
Hardiness: Zones 3-7
Care: Easy maintenance
Pests and Diseases: None of significance
Propagation: Division in early spring or late summer
Companion plants: Hosta, jack-in-the pulpit, Virginia bluebell, foamflower (Tiarella spp.)
Karen Meyers