Description
Borage (Borago officinalis)
Borage (Borago officinalis) is a beautiful Mediterranean herb loved for its vivid blue star-shaped flowers, cucumber-flavoured leaves, and pollinator-friendly nature. This hardy annual grows quickly and easily, reaching 60 to 90cm tall, making it a wonderful addition to herb, vegetable, and cottage gardens.
In the Kitchen
The young leaves have a mild cucumber flavour and can be added to salads, soups, drinks, and herbal teas. The edible blue flowers are perfect for decorating cakes, desserts, cocktails, and summer drinks.
Cultivation & Harvesting
Borage is easy to grow from seed and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Sow directly into the garden in spring after frost
- Space plants well as they grow large
- Water moderately and avoid overfeeding
- Excellent for garden beds or large containers
- Self-seeds readily in the garden
Borage grows beautifully alongside tomatoes, strawberries, cucumbers, cabbage, and squash.
In the Garden
A favourite companion plant, borage attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects while helping repel certain garden pests. Its nutrient-rich leaves can also be used in compost or as mulch to enrich the soil.
Health Benefits
Borage is rich in minerals and beneficial fatty acids, including Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). Traditionally it has been used as a calming herbal tonic and wellness herb.
