Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is a thistle-like annual in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), with highly branched stems and vibrant orange to yellow flowers. Historically cultivated for its oil-rich seeds, it was also used as a saffron substitute in the early Spanish colonies along the Rio Grande.

Did you know? In Japan, safflower dyes (beni) were highly prized for their brilliant pinks, used to color silks and cosmetics. The petals contain both yellow and red pigments, which can be coaxed out depending on the pH of the dye bath.

Our safflower is sourced from the Anatolian region, where the flowers are grown for oil production and the petals are carefully separated for dyeing use.

Active dye compounds: Carthamin (red pigment), water-soluble yellow flavonoids.

CI Natural Red 2

Shading Tips

• No mordant (on silk/cotton) → works as a substantive dye
• Yellow extraction → golden yellows (hot or cold bath)
• Alkaline extraction (pH 11, soda ash) → releases pink-red pigments
• Acidification (vinegar to pH 6) → stabilizes pink for silk dyeing
• Exhaust bath → oranges and soft yellows
• Overdye with indigo → fresh spring greens to warm corals