Pima County Public Library: Now Sowing: Borage

Tucson AZ

19 December, 2021

6:44 PM

Description

Press release from the Pima County Public Library: December 18, 2021 Borage is also known as starflower, bee bush, bee bread, and bugloss. It is a medicinal herb with edible leaves and flowers. Sow borage in your garden from September to February. Common Name: Borage Scientific Name: Borago officinalis Seed Saving Level: Easy Borage is drought-resistant and can handle poor soil. Enjoys full sun or partial shade. Grows 1-3 feet tall and will produce blue flowers in the summer that attract bees. Water moderately. Keep soil constantly moist after sowing, and when seeds germinate ease up. Once the top inch or two of the soil is dry, it is time to water again. Harvest young leaves before they get bristly hairs. Flowers can also be harvested as soon as they open. Shake flowers to release seeds once the petals have fallen off and the seeds have turned black. There are usually four per flower. Label and store in a cool, dry place for up to three years. Source Ingredients 3 large cucumbers 3/4 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons rice vinegar ½ teaspoon celery seed 1/4 cup chopped green onion 1 teaspoon sugar salt and pepper to taste ¼ cup fresh, young borage leaves (chopped finely) Instructions Slice the cucumbers thinly. Salt lightly and set aside in a colander for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry with paper towels. Mix the remaining ingredients, add the cucumbers to the mixture, and toss lightly. Garnish with borage blossoms. Chill for one hour before serving. Source Eco Herb: 15 Borage Recipes and Serving Ideas This press release was produced by the Pima County Public Library. The views expressed here are the author's own.