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Borage -

Wildflowers

Borage -

Borago officinalis

RHS Plants for Pollinators

This wild flower is frequently sown around the perimeter of fields as a bee attractant, making it excellent for sunny meadows. The robust arrow-shaped leaves are covered in hairs, and plants give rise to clusters of star-like sky-blue summer flowers. Will freely self-seed once established. The edible flowers have a mild cucumber-like flavour.

Plant type
Hardy Annual
Position
Full Sun
Height
90cm
Spread
40cm

Growing calendar

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Sow indoors
Sow outdoors
Flowering
Harvest

Sowing & growing

Best direct sown April-July, but can be sown under cover from March. Sow 10mm deep into moist seed compost. Borage seed germinates at a temperatures 15-25C. Thin out seedlings to 23cm between plants. (90cm tall). Keep ground well-watered during dry periods.

Aftercare

Harvest fresh flowers for immediate use in drinks and salads. At the end of the season, pull up plants and compost.

Ref. SEB006