Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Borage Plant for Your Landscape

Borage, also known as starflower, is a beautiful and versatile herb that can be grown in any garden. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for centuries for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental properties. Borage is a hardy annual that grows quickly and produces showy blue flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects. However, not all borage plants are created equal. In this article, we will discuss the different varieties of borage plants and how to choose the right one for your landscape.

Varieties of Borage Plants

Borage belongs to the Boraginaceae family, which includes over 2,000 species of plants. There are several varieties of borage plants, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common types of borage plants are:

Common Borage (Borago officinalis)

Common borage is the most widely grown variety of borage plant. It grows up to 2 feet tall and produces blue, star-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. Common borage has a long history of medicinal use and is often used to treat respiratory and digestive problems.

White Borage (Borago officinalis ‘Alba’)

White borage is a rare variety of borage plant that produces white flowers instead of blue. It has the same height and growth habit as common borage and is often grown for its ornamental value.

Variegated Borage (Borago officinalis ‘Variegata’)

Variegated borage is a striking variety of borage plant that has green leaves with white edges. It grows up to 3 feet tall and produces blue flowers. Variegated borage is often grown for its decorative value and is a popular choice for borders and container gardens.

Blue Borage (Borago officinalis ‘Blue’)

Blue borage is a newer variety of borage plant that produces larger, more vibrant blue flowers than common borage. It grows up to 3 feet tall and is often grown for its ornamental value.

Choosing the Right Borage Plant for Your Landscape

When choosing a borage plant for your landscape, it is important to consider several factors, including size, color, and intended use.

Size

The size of your borage plant will depend on where you plan to grow it. If you have limited space, choose a smaller variety like common or white borage. If you have more space or want a more dramatic effect, choose a larger variety like variegated or blue borage.

Color

The color of your borage plant will depend on your personal preference and the overall color scheme of your landscape. Blue borage is the most vibrant and eye-catching, while white borage has a more subtle beauty. Variegated borage adds a unique touch with its green-and-white leaves.

Intended Use

Consider how you plan to use your borage plant before choosing a variety. If you want to use it in cooking or herbal remedies, common or blue borage may be your best bet. If you want it purely as an ornamental plant, any variety will do.

How to Grow Borage Plants

Borage plants are easy to grow from seed or transplants. They prefer well-drained soil in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Borage plants are drought-tolerant but perform best with regular watering.

To sow seeds, plant them directly in the ground in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Space seeds about 12 inches apart and cover with about 1/4 inch of soil.

To transplant seedlings, wait until they are at least 4 inches tall before planting them in their permanent location. Space plants about 12 inches apart.

Borage plants self-seed readily, so you may find new seedlings popping up in unexpected places each year.

FAQ

What pests or diseases affect borage plants?

Borage plants are relatively pest-free but may be susceptible to powdery mildew or leaf spot if conditions are too humid or wet.

Can I grow borage indoors?

Yes! Borage plants can be grown indoors in containers as long as they receive plenty of sunlight.

Can I eat the leaves or flowers of my borage plant?

Yes! Both the leaves and flowers of the common borage plant are edible and have a cucumber-like flavor. They can be used fresh in salads or cooked in soups and stews.

How do I harvest my borage plant?

Harvest leaves and flowers when they are young and tender for best flavor. Cut them from the stem using scissors or pruning shears.

Can I save seeds from my borage plant?

Yes! Allow the flowers on your borage plant to dry out completely before harvesting the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place until ready to sow next season.

In conclusion, choosing the right size and variety of borage plant for your landscape can add beauty and functionality to your garden. Whether you choose common, white, variegated, or blue borage, these hardy annuals are easy to grow and care for while providing medicinal benefits and attracting beneficial insects to your garden.