Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ DA3Bedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read
Home/Plants/Boraginaceae

Borojo

Borojoa patinoifam. Boraginaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibletreesedibleedible fruitherbmedicinalnative amshade toleranttree
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Borojoa patinoi (Borojo) — botanical photograph
Pl. DA3B — Borojoa patinoi
Borojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoiBorojoa patinoi
I

Overview

Borojoa patinoi, commonly known as Borojo, is a tree belonging to the Boraginaceae family and is native to Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panamá. This plant thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, adaptable soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Growing up to 8 meters tall, Borojo is valued for its ornamental qualities and culinary use, with its fruit being edible and suitable for direct consumption or food preparations. The fruit, which is the primary edible part, can be used in various culinary applications, adding a unique flavor to drinks and other food items. Borojo is a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes, thriving in a range of conditions, making it a practical choice for tropical gardens and landscapes. While primarily known for its fruit, Borojo is also appreciated for its ability to grow in various conditions, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth and fruit production.

Quick answers

What is Borojo?

Borojoa patinoi, commonly known as Borojo, is a tree belonging to the Boraginaceae family and is native to Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panamá. This plant thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, adaptable soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).

Compare with:Caucasian spinach→Hound's Tongue→Pacific Hound's Tongue→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Borojo thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in zones 10-12, making it suitable for tropical gardens. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The plant can reach a height of 8 meters, so ample space is necessary. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth and fruit production.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Borojo for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, partial-shade spot in your garden for Borojo.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant seeds or transplant young plants during the rainy season or early spring.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant seeds 1-2 cm deep in moist soil. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade until the plant establishes itself.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide light to full shade depending on local conditions.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in direct sun, not providing enough shade, neglecting regular pruning.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Drink
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 4 native
Americas3 regions
native (3)ColombiaCosta RicaEcuador
Broader regions
native:Panamá
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Borojoa patinoi (Borojo) — botanical photograph
Borojo (Borojoa patinoi)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · da3b1136-e97b-4ecb-b1de-487b6dc81388
Decision aid
Choosing between Borojo and something else?
Compare with another plant

Continue reading

❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes