Borage

The most commonly grown borage, Borago officinalisproduces clumps of bristly leaves. Loose clusters of star-like blue flowers dangle in summer from upright stems to a height of around 50-70cm (up to about 2ft). They're annual plants but will self-seed so they usually reappear each year. A few cultivars differ from the species: the white-flowered Borago officinalis 'Alba' and variegated B. officinalis 'Bill Archer'. There's also a shorter creeping perennial, Borago pygmaea.

Grow in any average garden soil that is in full sun. Plants tolerate dry soil, though growth may be shorter.

Plants dislike permanently wet soil or heavy shade.

The flowers are edible and can be used to garnish summer drinks and salads. They can also be frozen in ice cubes for decorative effect all year long.