Herb – Borage

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SKU: HeBor Category:

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.

FAQ:

What is the historical or notable background of Borage?

Borage, also known as Burrage, Beebread, Beeplant, and Talewort, has a rich history rooted in the Mediterranean. It has been cultivated for centuries for its culinary and medicinal uses, with its star-shaped blue flowers often appearing in medieval European tapestries.

How would you describe the flavor of Borage?

Borage leaves have a refreshing, cucumber-like taste, making them ideal for salads and beverages. The tender young leaves are preferred for eating, while the older ones become rougher in texture.

What does Borage look like, and what are its growing habits?

Borage grows 1–3 feet tall and spreads 9–24 inches wide, with wrinkled gray-green leaves and drooping, star-shaped blue flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, self-seeding readily once established.

How much can I expect to harvest, and when is the best time to pick Borage?

You can begin harvesting leaves and flowers in 6–8 weeks after sowing. Harvest the leaves when young for the best flavor, and collect flowers as they bloom throughout the growing season.

When is the best time to plant Borage?

Direct sow Borage seeds outdoors after the last frost date. It prefers warm conditions and should be planted in spring once the danger of frost has passed, in soil temperatures between 70–85°F.

What are the common culinary uses of Borage?

Borage is a versatile herb used in soups, sauces, salads, and pasta fillings like German green sauce and Ligurian ravioli. Its edible flowers make lovely garnishes, can be candied, or steeped in teas.

What’s the best way to store Borage after harvest?

For short-term storage, fresh Borage leaves and flowers can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days. For longer storage, consider drying the leaves or freezing the flowers. To dry, place leaves on a cookie sheet away from moisture for several weeks, then store in an airtight container. For freezing, coarsely chop the leaves and flowers, place them in ice cube trays with water, freeze, and then transfer the cubes to plastic bags or airtight containers for future use.

What nutrients does Borage provide?

Borage is a natural source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid found in its seeds, offering nutritional benefits alongside its culinary appeal.

Does Borage have any medicinal uses or safety concerns?

Traditionally used to reduce fevers and soothe respiratory discomfort, Borage should be used with caution. It can contain compounds harmful to the liver and may pose cancer risks with long-term use. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and consult a doctor before medicinal use.

4 reviews for Herb – Borage

  1. Christine (verified owner)

    Amazing company!

  2. Holly (verified owner)

    Got the seeds promptly

  3. Barbara K. (verified owner)

    5 star!

  4. Linda Bryson (verified owner)

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