Dyers' Greenweed Pieces (Genista Tinctoria)

$13.90

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Also known as dyer's broom, woadwaxen, Färberginster (German), verfbrem (Dutch), genêt des teinturiers (French).

Dyers’ Greenweed is a classic European dye plant, found across much of Europe and the Mediterranean. It produces fresh, luminous yellows that deepen into golds, and with an iron post-mordant shift into beautiful greens. Its tones are clear and lively, making it a beloved source of yellow for dyers seeking shades with both warmth and brightness.

Historical Note
In the South of France, Genista tinctoria was an important yellow dye during the 18th century, often used alongside weld and fustic. Known locally as “genêt des teinturiers,” it was part of the regional tradition of dyeing woolens, especially in combination with indigo to create durable greens.

Active Coloring Compounds Primarily flavonoids (genistein, luteolin).

CI Colour Name
Closest family: CI Natural Yellow 2 / 8.

Shading Tips

Alum mordant → fresh to golden yellows
Iron (ferrous sulfate) → olive and green shades
Add calcium carbonate (1%) → clearer, brighter yellows
Heat control → avoid boiling to keep colours fresh

Part used: flowering tops and stems
WOF: ~30%
Mordant: alum recommended for best results
Cold dyeing: no
Hot dyeing: yes — simmer only (do not boil)
Light fastness: good

Method:

Pre-mordant fibres (alum for best results).
Use 30% WOF of dried dyestuff.
Heat gently to moderate temperature, keeping below boiling.
Add pre-wetted fibres and simmer until the desired depth of yellow is reached.
For greens, post-mordant with iron.
For brighter yellows, add 1% calcium carbonate to the bath.
Rinse thoroughly and dry out of direct sunlight.

For external use only. Not edible.
Keep away from children and pets.
Wear gloves and mask when handling powders.
Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with eyes.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Reseal tightly after use.

Naturally farmed and processed by small producers.

This product complies with the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR).

Packed and distributed by The Natural Dye Store, eHouse Rishon, Derech HaMaccabim 58, 7535998 Rishon LeZion, Israel. Contact: Suzanne Tamar Dekel, info@naturaldyestore.com, +972 52-541-0033.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Reseal tightly after use.

Naturally farmed and processed by small producers.

This product complies with the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR).

Packed and distributed by The Natural Dye Store, eHouse Rishon, Derech HaMaccabim 58, 7535998 Rishon LeZion, Israel. Contact: Suzanne Tamar Dekel, info@naturaldyestore.com, +972 52-541-0033.