Borage
Borago officinalis
A fast-growing annual herb with edible flowers and cucumber-flavoured leaves. It grows well in most UK gardens, self-seeds freely, and is best sown direct where it is to flower.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Borage
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
every 3 weeksSow seeds thinly where the plants are to grow, from to . Cover with a light seed dressing of and keep the soil just moist until germination.
Thin Seedlings
When seedlings are large enough to handle, from to , thin them to one plant every . Keep the strongest plants and remove extras cleanly at soil level.
Water New Plants
Water plants in well after thinning, then keep the soil lightly moist through while they establish. Once rooted, borage copes with moderate dryness, but flowers are better if the soil does not dry out completely.
Pinch Growing Tips
From to , pinch out the tips regularly while plants are young. That makes them bushier and delays flowering, which gives you more leafy growth for longer.
Harvest Leaves And Flowers
Pick young leaves and open flowers from to . Harvest often, taking small amounts from several plants so they keep producing fresh growth.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Borage.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Borage to consider
Blaue Blume
A reliable blue-flowered borage with plenty of edible blooms and quick growth.
Bianca
A white-flowered form that gives the same edible leaves and flowers as the blue type.
Variegata
A decorative form with cream-edged leaves, grown as much for appearance as for use.
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Calabrese
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Garlic
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