Borage

Borage (Borago officinalis) is an easygoing annual herb known for its vivid, star-shaped blue flowers and fuzzy, cucumber-scented leaves. Bees are famously drawn to it, making borage a favorite in pollinator gardens as much as kitchen gardens.

Growing Borage

Borage grows quickly from direct-sown seed and asks for very little — average soil, regular sun, and minimal fussing. It self-seeds enthusiastically, often returning on its own year after year once established, so many gardeners let a patch naturalize rather than replanting annually. Its coarse, hairy leaves and sprawling habit make it better suited to a dedicated corner than a tidy formal bed.

Culinary Uses

The edible blue flowers, with their mild cucumber flavor, make a striking garnish for salads, cold soups, and summer cocktails, and are often frozen into ice cubes for a decorative touch. Young leaves can be added sparingly to salads as well, though their fuzzy texture is best chopped fine or cooked briefly to soften.