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Borage

Borago officinalis

Flower

Borage is a permaculture powerhouse and one of the most generous companion plants: a dynamic accumulator of trace minerals, a powerful pollinator magnet, a repellent of tomato hornworm and cabbage worms, and an edible herb with star-shaped blue flowers beloved by bees.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0; thrives in poor to average soil

Spacing

12–18 inches

Days to Maturity

50–60 days from direct sow to flower

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–11

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

No known antagonists

When to Plant

  • Direct Sow

    After last frost; self-seeds prolifically once established

  • Harvest

    Harvest edible flowers as they open; leaves are also edible when young

Organic Growing Tips

  • Borage accumulates silicon and potassium and returns these minerals to soil as it decomposes — chop and drop around fruiting crops.

  • Allow it to self-seed freely throughout the garden — it will naturalise as a self-maintaining companion.

  • Blue borage flowers are one of the most attractive sources of nectar for bumblebees in the garden.

  • Borage planted near tomatoes is reported to repel tomato hornworm and improve tomato health and yield.

Common Pests

  • Aphids

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.