Pot Size: 1 quart
Native Status: Non-native
Description: Borage is an annual plant boasting bright, blue flower with fuzzy, oval shaped leaves that are wrinkly and grey-green in color and centered by five back stamens. The wrinkled, dull gray-green leaves that are covered with bristly hairs are edible but need to be used sparingly. Plant leaves taste like cucumber. This plant grows at its best in full sun but will not be adversely affected by light shade. It will do well in all types of soil, including nutritionally poor soil. Note: Borage is toxic to cats if digested.
Light Exposure: Full sun/partial shade Drought Tolerant: Yes
Soil Moisture: Dry well draining Salt Tolerant: Moderately
Mature Height: 1 ft 7 in - 3 ft Deer Resistant: Yes
Mature Width: 1 ft – 1.5 ft
Bloom Color/Bloom Time: Blue flowers blooming summer through fall.
Historical Uses: Was introduced to North America in the 17th century by European settlers. The flowers can be used for creating blue dye. Once added to an acid, it will turn pink. Used for cooking both past and present. Used for cooking both past and present. Both flowers and leaves can be used in salads, drinks, and other dishes. The tender leaves may be eaten raw or cooked like spinach. Leaves lose their flavor when dried. First record in America 1753.
Wildlife Values: High-value plant for wildlife, primarily acting as a "pollinator magnet" that produces abundant nectar, often refilling within minutes. Its long-blooming, star-shaped blue flowers (summer to fall) support honey bees, bumblebees, and beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps.
👉 For more information visit NC Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Medicinal plants can have serious side effects and interactions with medications. Consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, as you are responsible for your own health decisions.
Photo Credits:
1- Flower Jon Sullivan CC BY-NC 2.0
2- Form sissi de kroon CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Pot Size: 1 quart
Native Status: Non-native
Description: Borage is an annual plant boasting bright, blue flower with fuzzy, oval shaped leaves that are wrinkly and grey-green in color and centered by five back stamens. The wrinkled, dull gray-green leaves that are covered with bristly hairs are edible but need to be used sparingly. Plant leaves taste like cucumber. This plant grows at its best in full sun but will not be adversely affected by light shade. It will do well in all types of soil, including nutritionally poor soil. Note: Borage is toxic to cats if digested.
Light Exposure: Full sun/partial shade Drought Tolerant: Yes
Soil Moisture: Dry well draining Salt Tolerant: Moderately
Mature Height: 1 ft 7 in - 3 ft Deer Resistant: Yes
Mature Width: 1 ft – 1.5 ft
Bloom Color/Bloom Time: Blue flowers blooming summer through fall.
Historical Uses: Was introduced to North America in the 17th century by European settlers. The flowers can be used for creating blue dye. Once added to an acid, it will turn pink. Used for cooking both past and present. Used for cooking both past and present. Both flowers and leaves can be used in salads, drinks, and other dishes. The tender leaves may be eaten raw or cooked like spinach. Leaves lose their flavor when dried. First record in America 1753.
Wildlife Values: High-value plant for wildlife, primarily acting as a "pollinator magnet" that produces abundant nectar, often refilling within minutes. Its long-blooming, star-shaped blue flowers (summer to fall) support honey bees, bumblebees, and beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps.
👉 For more information visit NC Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Medicinal plants can have serious side effects and interactions with medications. Consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, as you are responsible for your own health decisions.
Photo Credits:
1- Flower Jon Sullivan CC BY-NC 2.0
2- Form sissi de kroon CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
