Dandelion (Taraxacum)

Dandelions (Taraxacum) are one of the most familiar signs of spring in the UK. They are recognised by their bright yellow flowers and jagged green leaves. After flowering, the flower heads can be gathered and used for natural dyeing, and regular picking can help limit self-seeding and encourage continued blooming.

Dandelions contain natural yellow pigments within the petals and flower heads. When simmered they typically produce yellows ranging from soft lemon shades to warmer golden tones depending on the strength of plant material used.

Dandelions contain only small amounts of natural tannins, and the colours are generally quite soft without the use of mordants. Alum often produces clearer, brighter yellows, while iron can dull the colour slightly, shifting it toward olive or muted greenish-brown tones.

Dandelion dyes work particularly well on wool and silk, though cotton and linen may produce lighter pastel shades. Because the flowers grow abundantly in lawns, verges, and wild spaces, they offer an accessible and sustainable way to experiment with seasonal spring dyeing.

Images show tests using silk, cotton, linen and wool samples.
Samples were tested with no mordant, alum mordant and iron mordants as well as using a soda ash modifier after dyeing