Sunflower - Hopi Black Dye

An ancient plant from the Hopi people of the American Southwest, grown for generations for its rich black seeds used to create natural dyes in soft shades of purple, blue and grey. Strong, branching plants bear single to multi-headed flowers of golden-yellow petals surrounding near-black centers. Use the whole crushed seeds or hulls only (for deeper colour) for dying wool, silk or cotton. Mordanting your fibre with alum or iron will extend the colour range and make the dye last longer. Easy to grow, excellent pollinator plant attracts seed-eating birds as well.

Helianthus annuus

Days to Maturity: 90

Life Cycle: Annual