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Russett Buffalo Berry (Soapberry) - Dye Plants |
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Shepherdia canadensis
The Russett Buffalo berry (Soapberry) fruit produces a red dye.
- Place the berries into a nylon stocking and fill the dyepot with water.
- Simmer the berries.
- Add clean wool and simmer until sufficient colour is obtained.
- Allow the dyebath to cool.
- Remove the wool, rinse and let dry.
Soapberry
Buffalo Berry (Soapberry) grows on a 1-2 metre spreading shrub. The brownish branches have small rusty sport and silvery hairs on the underside of the leaves. The bright red, oval berries feel soapy to the touch. The berries were used by First Nations of the coastal and interior regions fo British Columbia for food and medicinal purposes.
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