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Description
Murasaki Root Pieces (Lithospermum erythrorhizon) VioletAlso known as Purple Gromwell, shikon (Japanese), zi cao (Chinese). DescriptionMurasaki is one of Japans most ancient and revered natural dyes, derived from the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon. Used since the Nara period (710794 CE), it produces extraordinary purples that were once considered a forbidden color (kinjiki), reserved for the Imperial family and the highest ranking officials. These dried roots yield a spectrum from soft lilacs to deep
Also known as Purple Gromwell, shikon (Japanese), zi cao (Chinese).
Description
Murasaki is one of Japan’s most ancient and revered natural dyes, derived from the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon. Used since the Nara period (710–794 CE), it produces extraordinary purples that were once considered a “forbidden color” (kinjiki), reserved for the Imperial family and the highest-ranking officials.
These dried roots yield a spectrum from soft lilacs to deep imperial purples, depending on pH and mordant. More than just a dye, murasaki represents the aesthetics of classical Japan, where purple embodied nobility, refinement, and spiritual depth.
Historical Note
In ancient Japanese court culture, purple garments signified status and authority. The painstaking process of dyeing with murasaki ( requiring delicate cold extractions and skillful handling) made it one of the rarest and most prestigious colors of the Heian and Edo periods. The plant was also prized in traditional medicine, and its pigment continues to be studied today for its unique chemistry.
Active Dye Components
- Shikonin
- Acetylshikonin
CI Colour Name
Closest family: CI Natural Violet 1
Shading Tips
- Alum mordant: lilac to mid purples
- Alkaline extraction: deep violets and bluish purples
- Iron mordant: sombre grey-purples and eggplant tones
- Overdye with indigo: rich, near-black purples
- Sensitive to pH shifts — slight acidity gives redder hues, alkalinity pushes bluer tones
Light fastness: moderate — handle with care, avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Source
Sustainably sourced in small quantities. Suitable for experienced dyers seeking rare, historic colours.
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