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Parts of the Glasshouse Range will be closed from 20 April for a few weeks while essential repairs are carried out to the internal walkway. During this time, half of the Glasshouse Range will be inaccessible to visitors. We apologise for any inconvenience.

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Small blue berries growing on stems and green leaves
Home Learning Trails for Adults Dyes from Plants Rhamnus cathartica (Buckthorn)
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Rhamnus cathartica (Buckthorn)

Buckthorn is a species of small tree native to Europe, Asia and Northwest Africa, which has small yellow-green flowers and black berries. The berries of several Rhamnus species are used to produce a green colourant that has been documented in many medieval manuscripts and is known as ‘sap green’. These manuscripts include descriptions of dyeing yarns and leather a beautiful green. A yellow dye can be obtained from the unripe berries.

 

Small blue berries growing on stems and green leaves

Next: Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glorybower)
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