A staple of medieval and colonial gardens, madder contains alizarin, the pigment responsible for the red of the English “Redcoats.” Used by the Persians, Egyptians, Greeks, and then Romans, madder has deep roots in the Mediterranean and southern Europe—for most of human history, it was used for nearly all red textiles (until the advent of synthetic dyes in the early 1900s).
Climbing evergreen perennial with sandpapery undersides of leaves, small yellow flowers (produced the second year) that turn to dark berries (not edible) that dry into seeds that look like black peppercorns. The roots may be dug up for dye after two years, but three or more is better. The older the roots, the richer the dye. Can be used fresh or dried for later use.
Plant 1/2″ deep indoors in the spring. Germination takes 1-3 weeks and requires moisture, warmth, and sunlight. (However, mine germinated in a box without sunlight.) Transplant outside with one-foot spacing. Trellising recommended. Sun to part shade. (Full sun is best.) Prefers loose, well-drained soil. Extremely drought tolerant.
Liam (verified owner) –
WOW!! Not one dud in the bunch!! Shortly after planting they started growing ! These are really great packet of seeds!!!
Max (verified owner) –
Good quality.
Aadarsh (verified owner) –
Very healthy seeds! Well worth it.
Hayden (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate
Kaden Arabic (verified owner) –
Very well worth the money.
Paul (verified owner) –
Very well worth the money.
Richard (verified owner) –
Good service.
Daniel (verified owner) –
These seeds came right up and started producing squash. Can’t ask for more than that.
Avery (verified owner) –
Awesome product and company
Charles (verified owner) –
Very well worth the money.