Grow White Borage Herbs from freshly harvested Borago Officinalis herb seeds. Borage is typically known as the beautiful flowering herb that produces blue flowers. But you might be surprised that there is a white variety of the same lovely flower! The plants grow to a mature height of roughly 12 to 24 inches tall and can spread a good 18″ wide. The flowers are attractive, as are the stems and leaves.
The flowers are known to attract bumblebees and honeybees and can easily be grown in large pots and containers, or directly in the garden as well. The plants are categorized as annuals and are grown for a single season. They will wither with the first frost, but can return the following year if the seeds are collected from spent blooms. You might also consider purchasing Blue Borage to grow them both!
Quick Facts
- Type: Herb
- Season: Annual
- Heirloom: Yes
- Color: White
- Height: 12″ – 24″ Tall
- Width: 12″ to 18″ Spread
- Harvest: 50 to 60 Days
- Uses: Culinary / Medicinal / Ornamental
- Environment: Full Sun
Sowing The Seed
Borage seeds are best established directly outdoors, when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Prepare the sowing area by removing all unwanted plant life and weeds. Scatter your seeds to the surface of the soil, pressing each seed into the earth about 1/8” under topsoil. It is crucial that the seeds receive direct sunlight to properly germinate.
Growing Conditions
Borage herbs will enjoy an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day, with temperatures of at least 70F. The soil should be rich in organic matter, but also well drained. To improve drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to any areas that consist of hard, compact soil. Water the seeds daily with a mist setting or other light water setting to avoid overwatering and/or disturbing the seeds.
Germination & Growth
Your Borage will begin to show life within as little as 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of about 12 to 24 inches tall and can take up a fair amount of space. Space each plant roughly 12 inches apart from one another. Harvest young leaves for their cucumber flavor, adding them to salads through the summer months. The flowers can also be used as a garnish and are also popularly used in floral arrangements and bouquets as well. Attracts butterflies.