Spreading Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium reptans), also known as Greek valerian and abscess root, is a graceful herbaceous perennial wildflower found growing in dense clumps on shady streambanks and in rich woods throughout Appalachia. As the name implies, the plant has a creeping habit, and its slightly alternate leaves tend to spread across the ground and lean to one side or the other. In May, the plant produces clusters of lovely blue, bell-shaped flowers that droop noticeably, unlike those of the closely-related, but much rarer, Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium vanbruntiae), which has erect flowering stems. The plant was once used as an herbal remedy for inflammatory diseases, skin conditions and poisonous bites. Both Polemonium species occur in Central Appalachia. The photos above were taken on Spruce Knob.
