Growing and Using Borage

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Borago officinalis is a hardy annual which can grow to three feet. It has hairy stems and leaves and produces beautiful clear blue flowers with black anthers.

A white flowered form is also available. Borage grows best ion well drained soil and in a sunny position. It can tolerate poor soils, but will grow much larger in rich soil.It is easy to raise from seeds, provided you can keep the slugs away. It will usually self seed if in a suitable position. Plants form tap roots and therefore don’t transplant well. For this reason it is preferable to raise seedlings in cells or small pots.

Borage leaves are reputed to ease fevers and mouth infections. An infusion applied externally can sooth dry skin. Consuming both leaves and flowers will raise the spirits. Research supports this as it has been shown that they do have a positive effect on the adrenal gland. Leaves and stems may be used chopped in salads or in sandwiches. They also give a refreshing flavour to a glass of Pimms or summer fruit cups.

The flowers are the traditional decoration for this drink, but also look attractive on cakes and desserts. Flowers can be candied to preserve them.