Borage: Starflower of Courage

June is flying by and this year is about half over!

I hope your summer is off to a great start, with good things to eat, gardens growing well and enjoying the great weather we've had (in between storms and flooding!)



We've raised at least four families of birds in our yard this year between the robins, wrens, doves and (bluebird box) sparrows.


This week I have another video for you.  It's been a while since I've done one, and although they are a lot of fun they do take some time.


Borage
This week's video is on Borage, also known as Starflower for its five pointed flowers.

 

It is a great annual that readily self seeds and has vivid blue flowers.  Borage originated in the Mediterranean and has naturalized in many other places. It is one of the few plants with blue flowers that are edible.  Each part of the plant has a somewhat different flavor. 

Besides the things I mention in the video, Borage has been used in herbal medicine.  For more on its uses, benefits and side effects visit WebMD, or other reputable websites.

We've also had many, many Red Admiral butterflies visit our coneflowers and more this week.  A Fritillary and possibly a dark phase Tiger Swallowtail or Mourning Cloak flew by before I got a very good look.  I have only seen one Monarch though, in spite of the fact I have seen lots of wild milkweed in the area.  I hope you are seeing more!



Have a great week and a wonderful Independence Day!  If you're in Waukee, head to the parade and I'll see you there!