Borago officinalis
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusBorago
Zone3
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage or starflower, is an annual herb in the family Boraginaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has naturalized in many other parts of the world. Borage is known for its bright blue, star-shaped flowers and hairy leaves. It is often grown for its edible leaves and flowers, which have a cucumber-like flavor, and for its medicinal properties.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Borage
Starflower
Borago advena
Borago aspera
Borago hortensis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
GDD1,050
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Borage is relatively easy to care for. It prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. Water the plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Borage can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. It is a hardy plant that can grow both indoors and outdoors.Harvest
Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage, is typically ready for harvest about 70 days after planting. The best time to harvest borage is when the plant is in full bloom, as this is when the leaves and flowers are most flavorful and nutritious. To harvest, cut the young leaves and flowers with a pair of scissors or garden shears. It's important to handle the plant gently to avoid bruising the delicate leaves and flowers. Harvesting should be done in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day to ensure the best quality. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the blooming period.Soil
Borage prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives in nutrient-rich soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.Fertilizer
Borage benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot borage when it outgrows its container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Borage can be easily propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the soil in early spring or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, and then thin the seedlings to allow space for growth.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for borage. However, you can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Borage is not toxic to pets or humans. In fact, its leaves and flowers are edible and often used in salads, teas, and as garnishes. However, it is important to note that borage contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be harmful in large quantities if consumed over a long period.Additional
Borage is known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden. It also has medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various ailments, including respiratory and digestive issues.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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