I sowed Borage about 5 years ago for our bees. It has reseeded itself every year since. Yesterday when I was out I noticed the first of its star like blossoms had opened.
I find this to be a simply enchanting addition to my garden. Not only are it blue star flowers unique but its fuzzy stems and leaves seem almost downy.
Borage is naturalized throughout Europe and has been used for centuries both medicinally and for its capabilities of attracting pollinators. It is easy to grow in ordinary soil and as you can see freely reseeds itself...although I have not found it to be invasive and seedlings are easy to identify and replant where you wish.
The blossoms of borage have historically been candied and frozen in ice cubes for decorating summer drinks. A tonic made from leaves is said to promote activity in the kidneys and has been used for fevers. It is a good sourced of potassium and calcium.
Borage attracts pollinating bees and is considered a good companion plant for tomatoes, squash and strawberries. It’s even supposed to deter tomato hornworms and improve the flavor of tomatoes growing nearby. I grow it near my squash to attract bees...
Next to buckwheat I find few things that our bees love more than this lovely blue flower!
