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AGM plants have been through a rigorous trial and assessment programme. They are:
This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.
It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.
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Other common names borage cool tankard
talewort tailwort
Family Boraginaceae
Genus Borago can be annuals or perennials, with coarsely hairy stems and simple leaves, with branched cymes of blue flowers
Details B. officinalis is a large, branched annual with coarsely hairy, ovate leaves and branched cymes of starry, bright blue flowers 2cm across over a long period in summer
Plant range Europe
Foliage Deciduous
Habit Spreading / Branched
Hardiness
All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets
H5
Full Sun
Partial Shade
Aspect South-facing or West-facing or East-facing
Exposure Sheltered or Exposed
Chalk
Clay
Sand
Loam
MoistureWell-drained
SoilChalk, Clay, Sand, Loam
pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Ultimate height 0.5-1 metres
Ultimate spread 0.1-0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height 1-2 years
Cultivation Easy to grow in any reasonably drained soil in sun or partial shade. Dislikes transplanting
Propagation Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Cottage & Informal Garden Wildlife Gardens
Pruning Leave to self-seed after flowering
Pests Foliage may be damaged by slugs and leaf-mining flies
Diseases May be affected by powdery mildews
RHS members can get exclusive individual advice from the RHS Gardening Advice team.
borage
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