Description: Robust annual herbs, initially with a basal rosette.
Leaves opposite at the base, becoming alternate up stems.
Inflorescence terminal, of few to many scorpioid cymes. Corolla actinomorphic, tube short with 5 saccate scales at throat. Stamens exserted, each with a stiff appendage at the base, anthers almost sessile. Ovary 4-locular, distinctly lobed; style shorter than the anthers at anthesis, finally exserted; stigma barely dilated.
Mericarps ridged, with a vertical keel; basal attachment scar with a distinct rim.
Distribution and occurrence: World: 3 species, Mediterranean to C Asia. Australia: 1 species (naturalised).
Text by Peter G. Wilson
Taxon concept:
| One species in NSW: Borago officinalis |
|
