Borage
Borago officinalis
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Leaves contain alkaloids; consume in moderation
The Story
Plant Bio
Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage, is an herbaceous annual with distinctive hairy leaves and bright blue, star-shaped flowers. It's known for its culinary and medicinal applications. Borage is particularly valued for its edible flowers and leaves, which have a cucumber-like flavor and can be used in salads and beverages.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds about 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil.
- Mist the soil lightly to keep it moist during germination.
- Place in full sun for optimal growth.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer for best blooms.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply a light fertilizer monthly during the growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Borage questions
What zones can Borage grow in?
Borage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Borage deer resistant?
Yes — Borage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Borage bloom?
Borage typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Borage need full sun?
Borage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Borage drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Borage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Borage with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
