About Borage
Borage (Borago officinalis) has been grown in cottage gardens and monastery gardens for centuries and was traditionally known as the "herb of courage". It is a herb with a long and charming history, woven through the gardens and kitchens of generations past.
Its brilliant star-shaped flowers, most commonly blue but also available in a beautiful white form, have made it a favourite of gardeners for generations. Both varieties are rich in nectar and are among the very best plants for attracting bees and other pollinating insects. Few herbs bring so much life and movement to the garden through the summer months.
Borage readily self-seeds, often appearing in new places each year and adding a welcome sense of spontaneity to the herb garden. I love this quality in a plant — the way it finds its own favoured spots and returns each summer without any fuss.
Uses & Benefits
Borage is a traditional culinary and medicinal herb, valued for its edible flowers, refreshing cucumber-like flavour and importance to pollinating insects. Today it is appreciated just as much for its beauty in the garden as for its traditional uses.
Culinary Uses
The young leaves have a mild cucumber flavour and can be used sparingly in salads, soups and summer drinks. The vivid blue flowers are edible and make beautiful garnishes for salads, desserts, cakes and ice cubes, while also being traditionally added to summer punches.
Medicinal Uses
Borage has traditionally been used in European herbal practice and was once regarded as a herb that lifted the spirits. Today it is mainly appreciated for its long history of traditional use and should not be regarded as a substitute for medical treatment.
Growing & Harvesting
Growing
Borage is an easy annual that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Sow directly where it is to grow, as it develops a deep taproot. Allow a few plants to self-seed naturally each year, as they provide valuable food for bees and are easy to manage in the garden.
Harvesting
Harvest young leaves regularly while they are tender, and pick flowers as they open for immediate use or drying. Dry flowers on drying racks in a warm, airy place away from direct sunlight. Once completely dry, place them in a paper bag for a short time to ensure any remaining traces of moisture have disappeared before transferring them to an airtight plastic container and storing them in a cool, dark cupboard.
Cautions
Borage is generally safe when enjoyed occasionally as a culinary herb. Because the leaves contain naturally occurring pyrrolizidine alkaloids, it is best used in moderation. Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, has liver disease or is considering medicinal use should seek professional advice first.