Goldenrod

Giant goldenrod Solidago gigantea

Description

A yellow dye obtained from many Solidago species most of which are native to North America. One species, Solidago virgaurea, is native to Europe. Goldenrod is found near the edge of woods, on dry banks and in any acid soil region. Its abundance, reliability and clarity has made it popular with home dyers. Goldenrod gathered in full bloom and can be stored until needed, if properly dried. Colors range from a golden-yellow with alum to a dark orange with chrome and a green with Iron. The colorants in goldenrod are the flavonols, kaempferol and Quercetin, and the Anthocyanin, cyanidin. Natural tannins and Latex rubber are also present.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Solidago virgaurea; wild goldenrod

Sources Checked for Data in Record

• John and Margaret Cannon, Dye Plants and Dyeing, Herbert Press, London, 1994