Natural dyeing is a fascinating process that connects us with the natural world, allowing us to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind textiles. I love working with a variety of plants, but there are a few flowers that consistently bring stunning results and unique hues to the fabric. Here are my top five favourite flowers to use for natural dyeing, along with some helpful tips for when to plant them in Western Australia.

1. Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria)

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a powerhouse for natural dyeing. The vibrant yellow and orange blooms produce a rich range of colours, from golden yellows to warm oranges. On protein fibres like wool and silk, you can achieve more intense shades, while cellulose fibres, such as cotton and linen, yield softer, more muted tones.

Why it’s great for dyeing: Coreopsis is packed with natural colorants like flavonoids, which are responsible for its bright and long-lasting pigments. This flower is especially valued for its colourfastness, ensuring that your dyed textiles retain their vibrant hues over time.

When to plant: In Western Australia, plant coreopsis in early spring (September to October) when the temperatures are mild. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. For other regions, be sure to check your local climate and growing conditions.

How long they last: Coreopsis will bloom from late spring through summer. As an annual, it will complete its cycle within one season, but it often self-seeds, returning in subsequent years.

2. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)

Cosmos are a favourite for their delicate petals and soft, romantic colours. When used for dyeing, they yield gentle pinks, purples, blues and peaches, adding a touch of elegance to your fabrics.

Why it’s great for dyeing: Cosmos contain anthocyanins, similar to hibiscus, which produce soft pastel tones. They are ideal for creating a light, airy palette on your textiles.

When to plant: In Western Australia, plant cosmos in mid to late spring (October to November). They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them an easy and beautiful addition to any dye garden.

How long they last: Cosmos are annuals, blooming from mid-spring through late summer. They often reseed themselves, so you may find them reappearing the following year.

3. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Hibiscus flowers are known for their bold, tropical colours and can produce beautiful shades of red, purple, and even blue when used in natural dyeing. The colour varies depending on the pH of your dye bath, giving you endless possibilities for experimentation.

Why it’s great for dyeing: Hibiscus flowers contain anthocyanins, powerful pigments that are highly reactive to changes in pH levels. This means you can create a spectrum of colours, from deep reds to purples and even blues, simply by adjusting the acidity or alkalinity of your dye bath.

When to plant: In Western Australia, plant hibiscus in late spring (October to November) when the weather starts to warm up. They thrive in full sun and need regular watering. Remember, hibiscus prefers a tropical or subtropical climate, so adjust your planting schedule based on your region.

How long they last: Hibiscus is a perennial and can live for many years if properly cared for. Expect blooms from late spring through autumn, offering vibrant dyeing opportunities throughout the warmer seasons.

4. Marigolds (Tagetes erecta)

Marigolds are a staple in the natural dyeing world due to their abundant, vibrant yellow and orange blossoms. The colours extracted from marigolds are typically bright and bold, making them perfect for creating warm, sunny hues on your textiles.

Why it’s great for dyeing: Marigolds are rich in carotenoids, which are responsible for their intense yellow and orange pigments. These dyes are lightfast and long-lasting, especially on protein fibres like wool and silk.

When to plant: Marigolds can be planted in early spring (September) in Western Australia. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re relatively easy to grow, making them a fantastic choice for beginner gardeners.

How long they last: Marigolds are annuals, typically lasting for one season, from late spring to early autumn. Regular deadheading will encourage more blooms, providing an ongoing supply of dye material.

Why These Flowers Are Perfect for Natural Dyeing

Each of these flowers offers something unique to the natural dyeing process, whether it’s the range of colours they produce or the specific properties of their pigments. Many of them contain tannins, which act as natural mordants, helping to fix the dye to the fabric. Others, like hibiscus, react beautifully to changes in pH, allowing you to experiment with different shades and tones.

The colours you can achieve from these flowers vary depending on the type of fibre you’re dying. Protein fibres, such as wool and silk, tend to take on more vibrant and saturated colours, while cellulose fibres like cotton and linen may yield softer, more subdued hues. By experimenting with different combinations of flowers and fibres, you can create a stunning array of natural, eco-friendly textiles.

Remember, while these flowers thrive in the climate of Western Australia, growing conditions will vary depending on where you are in the world. Always check your local planting guides to ensure the best results for your dye garden. Happy dyeing!