BORAGE

A hardy annual, borage has a sprawling habit that blends nicely with wildflowers and vegetables. Sow seeds in the fall or very early spring, placing them approximately 20 inches apart as they reach a height of 18-30 inches. Due to its long tap root, it doesn't transplant well but reseeds readily.

Borage is a particularly beautiful choice for planting on a hill because its cobalt blue flowers tend to nod and dangle. Also called bee-bread, the flowers attract bees all summer long.

Borage is not a fussy plant, but the richer the soil, the bushier the plant will be. It prefers full sun, and needs protection from wind as it is easily blown over. Seeds can be sown throughout the season, and once growth is established, it will continue to seed itself. Place plants close together so they can support each other. A plant or two in an indoor pot will provide leaves all winter, but it will need lots of sun.

Borage is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes, squash and strawberries. The plant actually improves the flavor of tomatoes growing nearby.

Eat borage leaves and flowers fresh; they do not dry well. The flowers are lovely added to fruit salads, floating in punches or frozen in ice cubes. The small, tender leaves add a cucumber taste to sandwiches and salads. The flowers and young leaves may be used to garnish salads. dips, and cucumber soups.

Borage does not dry well for culinary use.

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Medicinal Use:

Because it is a tonic plant for the adrenal glands, borage provides an invaluable support for a stressful lifestyle.

Borage is rich in minerals, especially potassium.

A tea made with borage helps to reduce fevers and ease chest colds.

An infusion of borage acts as a galactogogue, promoting the production of milk in breastfeeding mothers.

Other Uses:

Borage makes an excellent facial steam for improving very dry, sensitive skin.

The flowers may be dried to add color to potpourri.

Legends:

In medieval times borage was thought to provide courage. The Crusaders were said to drink infusions of borage leaves mixed with wine before heading into battle.

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