History and Tradition

Borage originated in the Mediterranean where it was commonly found on wasteland.  This herb plant has a reputation for raising the spirits.  In The Herball, or Generall Historie of Plantes (1597), John Gerard, among other things, said that “the floures of Borrage put into wine make men and women glad and merry, driving away all sadnesse, dulnesse and melancholy”  Of course, the wine itself may have had something to do with this!  Borage was given to Roman soldiers for courage and comfort.

 

Description

 

Borage has dull green, large and wrinkly leaves which are very hairy and have the scent of cucumber.  In summer it has beautiful star shaped flowers of intense blue.  In good soil it can grow into a substantial plant.

 

Bees love borage and so if you keep bees it is worth growing a lot of this herb which is easily propagated from seed.  Even if you don’t keep bees it is worth trying to attract them into your garden.

 

Uses

 

Add the young leaves of this herb plant to salads and soups or chop into cream cheese or dips.  Borage flowers are also edible and can be added to salads, summer drinks and ice cubes. 

 

The oil from borage seeds is used medicinally.

 

Excess consumption can cause liver damage and so caution is required.  The fresh leaves may also cause skin irritation.

 

Site

 

This herb plant will tolerate most soils including clay and poor soil but likes full sun. 

 

Propagation

 

Sow borage seeds in early spring under protection at 20°C.  Germination varies with some seeds germinating within days and others taking up to two weeks.  Borage seedlings are quite large so this should be borne in mind when spacing seeds.  Alternatively, seeds can be sown outside in late spring.

 

Maintenance

 

Borage self seeds readily.  Seed heads will need collecting if you wish to avoid this.