Woad

Also known as Dyer's Woad or Glastum.

From the family Brassicaceae.

Since ancient times, woad was an important source of blue dye and was cultivated throughout Europe, especially in Western and Southern Europe. In medieval times, there were important woad-growing regions in England, Germany and France. Towns such as Toulouse became prosperous from the woad trade. Woad was eventually replaced by the more colourfast Indigofera tinctoria and, in the early 20th century, both woad and Indigofera tinctoria were replaced by synthetic blue dyes. Woad has been used medicinally for centuries. The double use of woad is seen in its name: the term 'Isatis' is linked to its ancient use to treat wounds; the term 'tinctoria' refers to its use as a dye.

Pick the leaves in July and August.

Use the branches for flower arranging. Use the leaves to produce a blue/indigo dye.