Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Isatis tinctoria L.

Fully hardy, tap-rooted, short-lived perennial or biennial with yellow flowers in early summer.  To 1.2m.  [RHSE, Hortus].

Horticultural & Botanical History

The leaves produce the blue dye Woad when boiled or fermented with ammonia. The plant also had medicinal uses, applied topically to reduce inflammation.  [McLeod].  Paxton’s Dictionary describes Isatis campestris as an introduction from Persia in 1820.  This plant may be one of the several varieties listed by Johnson’s Dictionary. Don describes Isatis campestris as ‘very like I. tinctoria’ and gives its origin as Odessa.  He records it as growing wild in Britain.  ‘Woad.  Isatis.  The stalks grow about three or four foot high, the leaves are a wilow green, and the flowers yellow.  It grows wild in several parts of England, but is generally sown for the use of the Dyers; and flowers in May.  Woad is esteemed restringent & drying, and is good to stop inward & outward bleedings.  Some commend it much for ruptures & strains, and to strengthen the joints.  It is an ingredient in the Emplastrum and Herniam.’  [Blackwell pl.246/1737].

History at Camden Park

Listed only in the 1845 catalogue.  Probably imported because of its importance as a source of dye.

Notes

Published Oct 02, 2009 - 11:15 AM | Last updated Oct 02, 2009 - 11:21 AM

Illustrated is flowering stem with leaves and rounded heads of small yellow flowers.  Blackwell pl.246, 1839.

Isatis tinctoria L. | Blackwell pl.246/1839 | BHL

Family Brassicaceae
Category
Region of origin

Southern Europe

Synonyms
  • Isatis campestris Stev. 
Common Name

Woad, Dyers woad

Name in the Camden Park Record

Isatis campestris 

Confidence level high