(Borago officinalis) Besides being extremely easy to grow, very hardy and edible, this flower, like Lime Green Nicotiana, virtually glows. Reminiscent of a shooting star in shape and a mild cucumber in taste, borage will produce continuous flower clusters that we and the bees both adore. The flowers, which are said to induce courage, open blue and slowly turn purple and then pink before they drop. Young leaves are also edible. Borage will survive light frosts and will self sow. 2’ bushy plants.
60-70 days. UO

Packet: 75 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost.

Transplant out after last frost. Take care to not allow plants to become root-bound.

Direct seed in early Spring (April).

Note: Cold hardy to light frosts. Will reseed abundantly!

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/2"

SPACING:

10-12" between plants in rows 15" apart.

EMERGENCE:

7-14 days @ soil temp 60-75F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Average. Grow in all soils although well-drained and evenly moist soil is preferred.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

While not absolutely necessary, these benefit from support to keep them upright and tidy. Our plants have grown to 4'!

Edible, bright blue flowers and young leaves that taste like cucumbers.

Attracts pollinators!

Edible flowers (and small leaves) are perfect for tea and sprinkling on cakes and salads.