Alba Borage Seeds

Borago officinalis "Alba"
Seeds per Package: 20
Borago officinalis

Borago officinalis ‘Alba’ (white borage) is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean, grown for its soft, hull‑white star‑shaped flowers (a white form of common borage), rough cucumber‑scented leaves, and rapid, self‑sowing habit. It’s a charismatic choice for cottage beds, herb gardens, and pollinator patches.

Plant white borage in full sun to part shade; it tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates. It prefers well‑drained soil from sandy to loamy with average fertility—rich soils can encourage excessive leaf growth. Provide regular moisture during establishment but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Seeds germinate easily and prefer light or very shallow covering: surface‑sow or cover only thinly and keep the medium evenly moist. You can direct‑sow after the danger of frost when soil has warmed or start indoors 3–4 weeks before last frost; expect germination in about 7–14 days at warm temperatures. No cold stratification is required, and plants transplant poorly once large, so direct sowing is often easiest.

Mature plants typically reach 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) tall with a 12–18 inch (30–45 cm) spread—space plants about 12–18 inches apart. Borage attracts bees and other pollinators, the young leaves are edible (mild cucumber flavor) and the flowers make charming edible garnishes for salads and drinks. Flowers and foliage can be used fresh in bouquets and pressed for small craft uses; plants self‑sow readily to return the following season in suitable climates.