Borago

Basic Information

Common Name: Borago

Scientific Name: Borago

Native Habitat: Mediterranean Region

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Borago, commonly known as borage, boasts a rich history intertwined with culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Its scientific name, Borago officinalis, hints at its historical use in apothecaries, suggesting it was a plant recognized for its therapeutic properties. The exact origins of its discovery are somewhat obscured by time, but its presence in the Mediterranean region since ancient times is well-documented.

Historical accounts suggest that borage was utilized by the ancient Romans and Greeks. Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist and philosopher, wrote about the plant, referring to it as “Euphrosinum,” believing it had properties that brought gladness and comfort. The Romans are credited with spreading borage throughout their empire, introducing it to new territories where it naturalized.

During the medieval period, borage was a common addition to monastery gardens and was cultivated for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It was often associated with courage and was reportedly given to knights before tournaments to instill bravery. The plant also featured prominently in herbal medicine traditions of the time, finding its way into numerous remedies for various ailments.

Cultivation of borage has continued through the centuries, albeit perhaps not on a massive agricultural scale. Its value as a honey plant, attracting bees with its vibrant blue flowers, has kept it in favor among beekeepers. Moreover, the leaves and flowers are edible and have been used in salads, soups, and beverages, providing a subtle cucumber-like flavor.

More recently, borage has gained attention for its oil, extracted from the seeds. Borage seed oil is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid believed to have various health benefits. This discovery and the subsequent development of efficient extraction methods have led to commercial cultivation in some regions.

The popularity and cultivation of borage owe much to its versatility and ease of growth. It is relatively low-maintenance, self-seeding readily in suitable conditions. While no specific individual or company can be credited as the definitive “cultivator” of borage, its enduring presence in gardens, kitchens, and apothecaries reflects a collective appreciation for its diverse qualities across numerous cultures and centuries. Its geographical origins firmly lie in the Mediterranean, where it continues to thrive in both cultivated and wild settings.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Borage has several interesting adaptations. Its hairy leaves and stems help to reduce water loss through transpiration, allowing it to thrive in drier Mediterranean climates. The vibrant blue flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, ensuring successful reproduction. The plant is also relatively fast-growing, allowing it to quickly colonize new areas. Furthermore, borage can improve soil health by accumulating minerals and nutrients, which can then be released back into the soil as the plant decomposes.

Propagation Methods

Borage is most commonly propagated by seed. Seeds can be directly sown into the garden in spring or fall. The plant readily self-seeds, so be prepared for new seedlings to emerge in subsequent seasons. While less common, borage can also be propagated through stem cuttings, although success rates may be lower than with seeds.

Toxicology

Borage contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), primarily in the seeds. While the levels are relatively low, excessive consumption of borage seeds may pose a health risk, particularly to the liver. Symptoms of PA toxicity can include liver damage, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Skin irritation can occur in sensitive individuals upon contact with the plant’s hairs. It’s advisable to consume borage leaves and flowers in moderation and avoid eating the seeds. While the toxicity is low, keep away from pets and small children who may not know to only eat the leaves.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Slugs

Diseases:

• Powdery mildew
• Root rot

Other:

• Leaf yellowing: Overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
• Leggy growth: Insufficient sunlight.
• Wilting: Underwatering or heat stress.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Borage is not considered rare. It is a common garden herb and readily available in most regions. However, certain cultivars or variations with unique characteristics may be less common.

Value:

The value of borage is primarily derived from its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Borage seed oil, valued for its GLA content, commands a higher price than the plant itself. Large or well-established borage plants, or those with particularly attractive flowers, may also have a higher value for ornamental purposes.