Also known as Peruvian carob, tara tannin.

Tara Powder is a vegetable tannin of the pyrogallic type, produced from the seed pods of the Caesalpinia spinosa shrub, native to the valleys of the Andes in Peru. The fruits contain 43–51% tannin, making Tara an excellent, sustainable source of tannins for natural dyeing. Traditionally, Tara has been used in leather tanning (for producing a pale, high-quality base), as well as in inks and deep black dyes.

In natural dyeing and botanical printing, Tara produces a clear beige on its own and shifts to deep greys and blacks with the addition of iron. It also enhances the light and wash fastness of other natural dyes.

Our Tara is sustainably harvested by local farmers without damaging the plants, a crop that not only protects against soil erosion but also provides vital income for rural communities.

Active Dye Compounds Pyrogallic tannins (hydrolysable tannins, rich in gallic acid)

CI Number Not assigned.

Shading Tips

• Without mordant: clear beige
• With iron (1% ferrous sulfate): grey to deep black
• As an adjunct: improves lightfastness of all natural dyes
• Fiber affinity: works especially well on cellulose; less effective on protein fibres