Borage (Borago officinalis), often admired for its star-shaped blue flowers and edible leaves, is a beloved herb in Australian gardens. While the classic blue-flowered variety is the most common, gardeners and herbal enthusiasts in Australia have access to several borage varieties, each offering unique features and benefits. Whether you’re growing borage for its ornamental beauty, culinary uses, or ecological advantages, understanding the different varieties available can help you choose the best fit for your garden and lifestyle.
The Classic Blue Borage: Borago officinalis
The most widely grown and recognized variety in Australia is the traditional blue borage. Known for its vibrant cobalt-blue, star-shaped flowers, this variety is a magnet for bees and other pollinators, making it invaluable for biodiversity in gardens.
- Appearance: Bright blue flowers with five pointed petals, hairy green leaves.
- Uses: Edible leaves and flowers, herbal teas, companion planting, and ornamental purposes.
- Growth Habit: Annual, growing up to 1 meter tall with sprawling branches.
White Borage (Borago officinalis ‘Alba’)
A charming alternative to the classic blue, white borage features delicate white flowers that offer a softer, more subtle aesthetic.
- Appearance: Pure white star-shaped flowers with the same fuzzy green foliage as the blue variety.
- Uses: Similar culinary and ecological benefits as blue borage, but preferred for gardens where a lighter color palette is desired.
- Growth Habit: Similar size and growth pattern to the blue variety.
Red or Pink Borage Varieties
Though less common in Australia, some gardeners experiment with borage cultivars that produce pink or reddish flowers. These varieties add a splash of color diversity and can be a striking contrast in mixed herb or flower beds.
- Appearance: Flowers range from pale pink to deep rose hues.
- Uses: Primarily ornamental, with edible leaves and flowers similar to blue borage.
- Growth Habit: Comparable to classic borage but may vary slightly depending on cultivar.
Varieties for Specific Uses
Some Australian seed suppliers offer borage varieties selected for particular traits such as:
- Leaf tenderness: Varieties bred for softer, less hairy leaves, making them more palatable for culinary use.
- Compact growth: Smaller, bushier types ideal for container gardening or limited spaces.
- Enhanced flowering: Cultivars that produce more abundant or longer-lasting blooms, perfect for attracting pollinators.
How to Choose the Right Borage Variety in Australia
When selecting a borage variety, consider:
- Purpose: Are you growing borage primarily for its flowers, edible leaves, or as a pollinator attractant?
- Garden space: Larger varieties suit open garden beds, while compact types are better for pots or small gardens.
- Aesthetic preference: Blue, white, or pink flowers can complement different garden designs.
- Climate: Borage is adaptable across Australia, but some varieties may perform better in certain regions or seasons.
Where to Find Borage Varieties in Australia
Australian seed companies such as The Seed Collection, Eden Seeds, and Digger’s Club offer a range of borage seeds, including classic blue and specialty varieties. Local nurseries and organic markets may also stock seedlings during the growing season.
Borage is a versatile and rewarding herb with several varieties available to suit Australian gardeners’ diverse needs. Whether you prefer the iconic blue starflower, the elegant white borage, or the rare pink cultivars, each variety brings beauty, flavor, and ecological benefits to your garden. Exploring these options can enrich your gardening experience and contribute to a vibrant, healthy outdoor space.