Borage Seed White (Borage officinalis)

White Borage, also known as Borago officinalis ‘Alba’, is a less common variety of the traditional blue borage, distinguished by its stunning white star-shaped flowers. This annual herb is cherished not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its culinary and medicinal properties. Originating in the Mediterranean region, white borage has adapted to various climates, making it a versatile addition to gardens worldwide.

The plant typically reaches a height of 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) and features hairy, broad leaves with a cucumber-like fragrance. The white flowers, which bloom from late spring to summer, are a magnet for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in the garden. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, white borage is celebrated for its edible flowers and leaves, which add a mild, cucumber-like flavor to salads, soups, and drinks. The flowers make an especially charming garnish for summer beverages and desserts.

Cultivating white borage is straightforward, as it prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It’s known for its hardiness and can even tolerate poor soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. The plant is also self-seeding, ensuring a continual presence in the garden year after year without the need for constant replanting.

Medicinally, borage has a long history of use in traditional medicine, valued for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. It’s believed to promote skin health and is used in various herbal remedies to support adrenal function and alleviate stress.

In the kitchen, white borage offers a unique culinary experience. The leaves can be used fresh in salads or cooked like spinach, while the flowers add a decorative and flavorful touch to dishes. The plant’s seeds are also a source of borage oil, known for its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, beneficial for skin health and hormonal balance.

In summary, white borage is a multifaceted plant that offers beauty, biodiversity, and a bounty of uses in the kitchen and herbal medicine. Its ease of cultivation and numerous benefits make it a valuable addition to any garden, serving as a bridge between the aesthetic and the practical, the ornamental and the edible.