Herb, Borage
72 in stock
Quick Overview
HERB, Borage –
Borago officinalis
FULL SUN Native to Europe, Asia Minor and Africa, this plant has been cultivated for centuries, largely because it was believed to give someone courage. The 2-3 ft. plants produce grayish-green, 6 in., ovate to oblong, slightly savoyed, hairy leaves that have a cucumber flavor. Borage self-seeds prolifically. Once planted, new plants will grow each year. Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed. Rows should be 2 ft. apart. When seedlings are 2 in. high, thin, leaving 2 ft. between plants. Harvest throughout the season by cutting individual leaves. Borage makes an excellent container plant – 1 plant per 10 in. diameter pot.
| Type | Spacing | Planting Depth | Days to Germination | Maturity |
| Annual | 2 in. | 1 in. | 7-14 | 75-90 |
Herb, Borage
Borage has long been known for inspiring courage in the individuals who chewed its leaves or drank a wine concoction made from parts of the plant. Actually the chemicals in Borage encourage feelings of elation and well-being which were often confused with a feeling of courage. Less than a century ago, Borage was still being smuggled into the drink of prospective husbands to give them the courage to propose marriage. Today, Borage is recognized as an anti-depressant, diuretic, demulcent and emollient.
The cucumber taste of fresh Borage leaves heightens the flavor of iced vegetable soups, chicken stock and when made into a tea enriches strawberry and other fruit ices. During Victorian times, a ladies’ drink made from white wine, crushed Borage leaves and sugar became very popular with royals and the upper classes.
Borage is one of the greatest plants to use to attract bees. The lovely blue flowers are bee magnets and the honey produced by bees is delicious.
Borage is a superb container plant. One plant in an 10 inch diameter pot will flourish. It can be grown indoors if given a sunny window and lots of moisture.
