Symplocos Powder ~ Symplocos cochinchinensis
Traditional Botanical Mordant-Rich Leaf Powder – Aluminium-Accumulating Plant Mordant
Symplocos is a unique natural mordanting material made from the dried leaves of the Symplocos cochinchinensis tree, which naturally accumulates aluminium from the soil. Long used in traditional dye communities across Asia as a plant-based alternative to mineral alum, Symplocos offers natural dyers a way to mordant cellulose and protein fibres using an aluminium-rich botanical rather than a synthesised salt. A lovely choice for makers wanting to keep their process as plant-based as possible from mordant through to dye.
Key Features:
- 100% pure, ground Symplocos cochinchinensis leaf powder
- Naturally high in plant-accumulated aluminium
- Traditional alternative to mineral alum mordants
- Suitable for cotton, linen, silk, and wool
- A plant-based option for fully botanical dye processes
- Grown and processed in India.
Dyeing & Mordanting Notes:
- Used as a natural alum-mordant alternative, typically simmered with fibre before dyeing
- Use at 20 - 50% WOF. Simmer the leaves for approx 30 mins - 1 hour and then soak fabric for around an hour at 60 - 80 degrees.
- As Results may vary by harvest and soil source, test a sample swatch before mordanting a full batch
- Combine with a tannin pre-treatment for extra depth on cellulose fibres
- Results may vary by harvest and soil source — test a sample swatch before mordanting a full batch.
