BORAGE SEEDS

Borago officinalis

An ancient cultivated herb. According to Gerard, Borage leaves and flowers were macerated in wine and consumed to the effect of relieving depression. Whole young plants were cultivated for use as a vegetable, and continue to be in Italy where they are used to stuff pasta. Young leaves are indeed an excellent source of potassium and calcium, but their peculiar texture isn't necessarily appealing to everyone at first blush.

The most magical part of this plant is its cucumber-flavored bright blue star-shaped flower. Produced prolifically throughout the season, Borage flowers are one of the gardens most eminently edible flowers. They hold well in a salad mix, even on hot summer days. They can be frozen into decorative ice cubes using distilled water. They are a glamourous garnish to the most humble of hors d'oeuvres.

Borage is easy to grow, and will usually sow itself indefinitely. Sow directly into the garden in spring: sow seeds just below soil surface in full sun or part shade and water daily until germination occurs. Thin young plants to 6"-8" apart, eating or composting culled plants.

Borage will be devastated by slugs. Growing plants in full sun and using horticultural grit around plants will help.

Borage is an excellent companion in the vegetable garden. Whole plants make a good mulch for winter crops.

Packet contains 30 seeds.