logwood
dye
Also known as: haematoxylin
Quick Summary
Logwood, scientifically known as Haematoxylum campechianum, is a tree native to Central America and the West Indies. Its heavy, hard wood, specifically the red heartwood, is the source of a valuable black dye. This dye, and its derivative hematoxylin, are still used today, particularly as a histological stain. Logwood can also produce rich blacks on materials like silk when combined with iron mordants. While many natural dyes have been replaced by synthetics, logwood remains one of the few natural dyes still in use.12345
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