Blue Borage

Borage officianalis

Seeds per pack ~ 100  

DAYS TO MATURITY: 80-90 days to flower

PLANT DESCRIPTION:  Borage is a captivating and versatile herbaceous plant known for its vibrant blue, star-shaped flowers and bristly, green foliage. Native to the Mediterranean region, borage has naturalized in many parts of the world. The plant typically grows upright, reaching a height of 1 to 3 feet, with branching stems. Its leaves are large, oval, and covered in fine, prickly hairs. Borage is well-loved not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its culinary uses. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, boasting a mild cucumber-like flavor. The blossoms, in particular, make for an attractive addition to salads or garnishes for various dishes. Borage is also valued for its herbal properties and is often used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. Known as a bee-friendly plant, borage attracts pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers, making it a favorite in gardens and landscapes.

HISTORY: Borage was frequently used in traditional herbal remedies for a range of ailments. Its reputation as a mood-enhancing herb persisted through the ages. Additionally, borage leaves and flowers found their way into salads, soups, and beverages, adding a refreshing cucumber-like taste to culinary creations.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE: The leaves of borage are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins such as vitamin C, which supports immune function, and vitamin A, vital for vision and skin health. Borage leaves are also a good source of minerals like potassium, necessary for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body, and calcium, crucial for bone health. Additionally, borage contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with potential anti-inflammatory properties. While consumed in moderate quantities, borage can contribute to overall nutrient intake, offering a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds.

FOOD PREP: The tender, cucumber-flavored leaves and vibrant blue flowers make it a delightful addition to both sweet and savory dishes. The leaves can be finely chopped and incorporated into salads, dips, or cold soups, providing a fresh and mild herbal note. Borage flowers, known for their striking appearance, make stunning edible garnishes for desserts, salads, and beverages, adding a pop of color to the plate. The flowers can also be frozen in ice cubes for an elegant touch to drinks. Borage is a popular ingredient in herbal teas, contributing its unique flavor to infusions. Its versatility extends to being used in sauces, marinades, and as a flavorful addition to cocktails.

GROWING TIPS: Annual. Grown from seed, borage can be started indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost or direct seeded just after the danger of frost has passed. Sow seeds approximately 1” and thin seedlings to at least one foot apart. Trim back occasionally to keep plants tidy and upright. Borage will self-seed if flowers are left to drop on the plant.