ExplorePlants

Borage

Borago officinalis

Borage is a beautiful flower with bright blue petals that look like little stars! It grows in gardens and can attract friendly bees and butterflies.

Habitat: Gardens

Appearance

The Borage has hairy, bristly stems and leaves, giving it a fuzzy feel. Its vibrant blue, star-shaped flowers often hang downwards, sometimes appearing pink or white. These bright blooms, with black anthers in the center, make it visually distinctive.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderBoraginalesFamilyBoraginaceaeGenusBorago
Borage
flowering trait badgeshrub trait badgesummer_blooming trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
Borage

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ancient Roman warriors believed borage brought courage, so they drank wine infused with its leaves!

Borage flowers can actually change color from blue to pink as they grow older!

Borage seeds contain a special oil used to make medicines and skin care products!

Its fuzzy leaves feel just like velcro when you gently touch them!

Special abilities

Ability

Pollinator Magnet

Borage produces abundant nectar, which helps it attract bees and other pollinators to spread its pollen.

Ability

Thirsty Root

Borage has a deep taproot that helps it find water and nutrients deep in the soil to grow strong.

Ability

Fuzzy Shield

The bristly hairs covering Borage leaves and stems help protect it from some hungry pests.

Measurements & details

Height
60-100 cm
Spread
30-60 cm
Flower Size
1-2 cm
Bloom Season
Late spring to late summer
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Annual
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European honey bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen.

pollinates

Buff-tailed bumblebee

Bombus terrestris

Visits flowers for nectar.

pollinates

Painted lady butterfly

Vanessa cardui

Feeds on flower nectar.

Traits

Also known as

Starflower

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always check with an adult before picking or eating any flowers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Borage?

60-100 cm

How wide does Borage spread?

30-60 cm

How big are the flowers on Borage?

1-2 cm

When does Borage bloom?

Late spring to late summer

Is Borage edible?

Yes

Is Borage toxic?

None

What is Borage's lifecycle?

Annual

How is Borage pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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