Madder Seeds (Rubia tinctorium) Qty 30
SKU:
SEED
$7.99
$7.99
per item
Rubia tinctorum, commonly known as Dyer's Madder, is a classic perennial dye plant famous for producing rich, deep reds and burgundy tones from its roots. One of the oldest and most valued dye plants in history, madder has been used for centuries to create vibrant, lightfast colors on natural fibers.
- Qty: Approx. 30 Open Pollinated Madder seeds (Rubia tinctorium)
3 available
Growing guide
Season: Perennial
USDA Zone: 5-9
Botanical Name: Rubia tinctorum
Dye Color: Deep Reds, Burgundies, Pinks
Height: 2-4 feet (sprawling)
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Germination: 14-30+ Days (can be slow)
Homestead Notes
Grown on my small chemical-free Eco-farm in West Virginia. These are non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds you can save and grow year after year. I grow in a diverse, messy-but-beautiful garden that supports beneficial insects — no sprays or treatments of any kind.
Why Grow Madder?
Important Growing Notes
Madder is a slow starter — seeds can take up to a month to germinate. The plants have sprawling, slightly sticky vines and very strong, spreading roots. It is considered invasive in some regions, so plan your planting area carefully. For the best dye results, harvest roots in the third year (or older) after drying them first.
Dyeing Tips
Harvest mature roots, dry them, then crush or chop before soaking and heating to create a dye bath. Madder roots produce some of the most beautiful and permanent reds in natural dyeing.
Zero Waste Packaging
Seeds are hand-packed in paper envelopes. I reuse padded mailers and boxes whenever possible. You’re welcome to reuse or recycle the packaging too!
Need help? Please contact me and I'll do my best to assist you.
Images may appear different on different devices and screens. I have included watercolor art of some of my product pictures simply because I enjoy it. I hope you enjoy it as well.
Season: Perennial
USDA Zone: 5-9
Botanical Name: Rubia tinctorum
Dye Color: Deep Reds, Burgundies, Pinks
Height: 2-4 feet (sprawling)
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Germination: 14-30+ Days (can be slow)
Homestead Notes
Grown on my small chemical-free Eco-farm in West Virginia. These are non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds you can save and grow year after year. I grow in a diverse, messy-but-beautiful garden that supports beneficial insects — no sprays or treatments of any kind.
Why Grow Madder?
- Produces excellent natural red and burgundy dyes
- Lightfast colors — can even be used without an aluminum mordant (tannin recommended)
- Hardy perennial once established
- Beautiful addition to dye gardens and pollinator spaces
Important Growing Notes
Madder is a slow starter — seeds can take up to a month to germinate. The plants have sprawling, slightly sticky vines and very strong, spreading roots. It is considered invasive in some regions, so plan your planting area carefully. For the best dye results, harvest roots in the third year (or older) after drying them first.
Dyeing Tips
Harvest mature roots, dry them, then crush or chop before soaking and heating to create a dye bath. Madder roots produce some of the most beautiful and permanent reds in natural dyeing.
Zero Waste Packaging
Seeds are hand-packed in paper envelopes. I reuse padded mailers and boxes whenever possible. You’re welcome to reuse or recycle the packaging too!
Need help? Please contact me and I'll do my best to assist you.
Images may appear different on different devices and screens. I have included watercolor art of some of my product pictures simply because I enjoy it. I hope you enjoy it as well.