Managu, Black Nightshade (75 days) Solanum nigrum - While most gardeners in the USA would not think of growing black nightshade (Solanum nigra) which is a Eurasia weed that typically grows to 12-24” tall with purplish black fruits, this is a different species (Solanum nigrum) which grows wild throughout Eastern Africa and has been widely domesticated as a nutritious green vegetable. It is typically parboiled and then the water discarded as the leaves contain also contain high levels of vitamin A, B, and C, and phenolics and alkaloids. Unbeknownst to most people, all members of the Solanacea (nightshade) family including peppers and tomatoes contain trace amounts of nicotine! What we found amazing about growing this species is its tall growth habit to over 4’ and its larger clusters of deep purple fruit that would likely make an incredible natural dye. Luther burbank bred a hybrid form called Wonder Berry with sweet palatable fruits (Solanum burbankii). Packet: 1/4g...

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Coreopsis, Dyer’s  (80 days) Coreopsis tinctoria  The brilliant crimson and gold variegated petals of this variety of Coreopsis warrant carrying it along with our Coreopsis Calliopsis.  Both can be used to dye textiles a color along the spectrum of gold to sienna.  Amongst the Dyer’s Coreopsis, some plants exhibit bold, solid crimson petals, some bicolor gold/red, and others yellow-flecked red.  Use this coreopsis for a bold filler flower to accent other autumnal colored flowers.  Cut regularly for months of bloom.  An annual that grows up to 30” tall.  Space 12” apart.  A good dye plant.  FLA.  Packet - (1/4g ~185 seeds)...

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Marigold, Pinwheel Tagates patula (80-90 days)  Also known as harlequin. A fantastic heirloom curiosity originally from Mexico and tweaked by breeder Alan “Mushroom” Kapular to produce a unique array of blooms exhibiting a pinwheel of alternating maroon and yellow petals. Grows to 3’+ and has an extended blooming period. Makes a golden yellow plant dye.  Packet: (1/2g~115 seeds)  Bulk: 5g ...

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