Herb – Borage

Description

50 Seeds per pack

Borage (A.K.A. Burrage, Beebread, Beeplant, Talewort)

Days to Maturity: 50–60 Days

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade.

Botanical Name: (Borago officinalis)      

Native to the Mediterranean region, Borage has been cultivated for centuries for its culinary and medicinal uses. This hardy annual has gained popularity across Europe and North America, thriving in mild climates. Its star-shaped flowers, often featured in medieval tapestries, have long been prized for their beauty and usefulness. In addition to its historical role in herbal medicine, it is also popular among beekeepers.

This fast-growing plant reaches 1–3 feet tall and spreads 9–24 inches wide. Its slightly nodding blossoms rise above wrinkled, gray-green leaves covered in fine bristles. Borage thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade, and it is well-suited for a variety of soil types, including nutritionally poor ground. Once established, it self-seeds readily, ensuring its presence in the garden year after year.

The flavor of the leaves is reminiscent of cucumber, making them a refreshing addition to salads. The young leaves are tender and best eaten fresh, while the larger, older leaves develop a coarse texture. The brilliant blue flowers, sometimes tinged with pink, are edible and can be used as garnishes, candied for desserts, or infused into teas. In European cuisine, Borage is commonly found in soups, sauces, and pasta fillings, including German green sauce and Ligurian ravioli.

A favorite in pollinator gardens, borage attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the growing season. Its flowers are an outstanding nectar source, earning it a place among beekeepers and making it a valuable companion plant for many vegetable crops.

Though commonly appreciated for its culinary uses, borage has l been used in traditional remedies to help reduce fevers and soothe respiratory discomfort. It offers a natural source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. The seeds are especially valued for their concentration of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid. Easy to grow Borage brings beauty, utility, and nourishment to the garden with very little effort!

Warning: Borage seed oil and all parts of the plant—including leaves, flowers, and seeds—can contain harmful chemicals that may damage the liver or raise the risk of cancer, especially when eaten in large amounts or over a long period of time. Do not consume during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Always check with a doctor before using borage as a medicine.

Planting Instructions for Borage Seeds

Borage is a hardy, annual herb that thrives in warm weather. Direct sow borage seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, as it is sensitive to frost. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best results. Sow seeds ¼” deep, spaced 12-18” apart in rows 18-24” apart, or scatter them in a designated herb bed. Borage prefers well-drained soil with good organic content but can tolerate poor soils. Keep the soil slightly moist during germination, which typically occurs in 5-15 days at soil temperatures between 70-85°F. Thin seedlings to 12-18” apart once they develop true leaves.

Borage is a self-seeding plant, meaning it will readily reseed itself for future growing seasons. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance and will attract beneficial pollinators like bees. Harvest leaves and flowers as needed once the plant is fully established, typically in 6-8 weeks. The young leaves and flowers are edible, adding a cucumber-like flavor to salads or drinks.

Warning: Borage seed oil and all parts of the plant—including leaves, flowers, and seeds—can contain harmful chemicals that may damage the liver or raise the risk of cancer, especially when eaten in large amounts or over a long period of time. Do not consume during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Always check with a doctor before using borage as a medicine.

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