Borage Starflower Herb Seeds

Borage (Starflower) Herb Seeds – Comprehensive Product Details
Scientific Name:
Borago officinalis

Description:
Borage, commonly known as starflower, is an easy-to-grow annual herb with stunning star-shaped blue flowers. It is well-known for its edible leaves and flowers, medicinal properties, and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and self-seeding, making it a great choice for home gardens, pollinator gardens, and herbal medicine enthusiasts.

Product Features:
Plant Type: Annual herb
Growth Height: 2–3 feet (60–90 cm)
Flower Color: Primarily blue; some varieties may have white or pink flowers
Leaf Characteristics: Green, oval, and covered in fine bristles
Bloom Period: Late spring to early fall
Aroma & Taste: Slightly cucumber-like taste with mild, herbal fragrance
Uses & Benefits:
Culinary Uses:
Leaves can be used fresh in salads, soups, or as a garnish.
Flowers are edible and often used for decorating desserts and cocktails.
Can be used as a natural flavor enhancer for drinks, such as herbal teas and lemonade.
Medicinal & Health Benefits:
Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid.
Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and skin health benefits.
Supports adrenal function and may help reduce stress.
Often brewed into herbal tea for respiratory health and digestion.
Garden & Pollinator Attraction:
Borage is an excellent companion plant, improving the health of tomatoes, strawberries, and squash.
Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity.
Helps naturally repel harmful pests in the garden.
Growing Instructions:
Planting:
Best Planting Time: Early spring after the last frost.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep in well-draining soil.
Spacing: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow for bushy growth.
Germination Time: 7–14 days at soil temperatures of 55–70°F (13–21°C).
Soil & Sun Requirements:
Prefers full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).
Grows best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0–7.0.
Tolerates poor soil conditions and is drought-resistant once established.
Watering & Maintenance:
Water moderately; soil should remain moist but not waterlogged.
Once established, borage is relatively drought-tolerant.
Self-seeding plant; cut back or remove unwanted plants to prevent excessive spreading.
Harvesting & Storage:
Leaves: Harvest young leaves before flowering for the best flavor.
Flowers: Pick fresh blooms for decoration, culinary use, or drying.
Seeds: Allow seed heads to dry on the plant before collecting for future sowing.
Additional Notes:
Can be grown in garden beds, herb gardens, or containers.
Self-seeds readily, making it a sustainable and recurring addition to gardens.
Leaves and stems are covered with fine bristles, so gloves are recommended when handling.
Acts as a natural fertilizer, improving soil health over time.
Ideal For:
✔ Home gardeners
✔ Herbalists & natural medicine enthusiasts
✔ Beekeepers & pollinator-friendly gardens
✔ Companion planting in vegetable gardens
✔ Culinary & edible flower gardening

Borage is a must-have herb for anyone looking to cultivate a beautiful, useful, and pollinator-friendly garden! 🌿🌸