Borage

Borage in flower

Borage (Borago officinalis), also known as "starflower" is an annual herb originating in Syria, but naturalized throughout the Mediterranean region, as well as Asia Minor, Europe, North Africa, and South America. It grows to a height of 60-100 cm (2-3 feet), and is bristly or hairy all over the stems and leaves. Flowers are most often blue in colour, although pink flowers are sometime observed. White flowered types are also cultivated. In milder climates, borage will bloom continuously for most of the year.

Culinary uses

Borage production does include use as either a fresh vegetable or a dried herb. As a fresh vegetable, borage, with a cucumber like taste, is often used in salads or as a garnish. The flower has a sweet honey-like taste and is one of the few truly blue-coloured edible things, is often used to decorate dessert. The flowers are often used to garnish the beverage, Pimms.