Biwanoha (Loquat Leaf) Japanese dye

Description

Biwanoha (Loquat Leaf) Japanese dye

Eriobotrya japonica

Loquat is a hardy, subtropical tree that bears small golden fruits with a large, shiny pit that are popular for jam and as a fresh fruit. The leaves are medicinal and used to reduce inflammation. As a dyestuff, the leaves create a warm, muted pink to peach shade and the color deepens if you let it steep for 1-2 days or longer before dyeing. Longer soaking times with occasional heating will deepen the color and some dyers have reported getting a dark terra cotta shade with long soak times.  Use the dried dyestuff up to 200% wof.

For those of you who live in the Hawai’i, Florida, the Bay Area and southern California, loquat trees are fairly common, and you should be able to do a little urban foraging for a loquat leaf supply.  You can use the leaves fresh or dried.