# Borage

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/borage/
Published: 2026-03-10
Updated: 2026-07-27

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## **BORAGE (*Borago officinalis*)**

**Transplant | Late May | Annual**

A charming cottage-garden herb known for its brilliant blue star-shaped flowers and cucumber-flavored leaves. This medicinal herb has long been valued in traditional herbalism and is beloved by pollinators—especially bees. Both the leaves and edible flowers can be used in the kitchen, adding fresh flavor and beauty to salads, drinks, and desserts.

**Growing Details**

- Plant spacing: 12–18″
- Full sun
- Not frost hardy
- Plants grow about 24–30″ tall

**Garden Companionship**\
*Best planted with:* Tomatoes, strawberries, squash, cucumbers, and herbs\
*Benefits:* Attracts bees and beneficial insects, improves pollination, and may help deter tomato hornworms\
*Avoid planting near:* Overcrowded areas, as plants grow large and benefit from good airflow

**Pro Growing Tips**

- Leaves have a refreshing cucumber flavor and are best harvested young for salads and herbal preparations
- Edible flowers make beautiful garnishes and can be frozen into ice cubes for drinks
- Plants readily self-sow and may return year after year in favorable conditions

⚠ **Pet Safety:** This plant is considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

*Pre-order now for vibrant, pollinator-friendly plants timed perfectly for late-spring planting.*