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Greek Valerian (Polemonium caeruleum)
Jacobs ladder. This plant is native to the temperate areas of Europe and is found naturalized near woodland streams and swamps. This hardy perennial reaches a height of up to 2 feet with cup shaped purplish flowers and foliage reminiscent of Valerian. It prefers a well drained site with partial shade. Cats find the scent of this plant extremely attractive and may cause damage in their enthusiasm. Historically, Greek Valerian was used in Ancient Greece for treating toothaches, animal bites, and dysentary. It was later used during the 19th Century for treatment of syphilis, headaches, fevers and epilepsy. More recently, the plant has been used for its scent in potpourri and can be boiled in olive oil for a black hair dye. It is often grown as an ornamental for its attractive flowers. Easy to grow and readily self sows. Hardy to zone 2.
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