(Also known as Coronillo, Quebracho Cornillo, Quebracho Chaqueño, Quebracho Colorado Santiagueño, Quebracho Macho, Quebracho Bolí)

Quebracho extract is one of the most tannin-rich dyestuffs available, with a tannin content of up to 76%. It dyes all natural fibres in shades of brown-red, pink, golden brown, and deep browns when used with alum. With an alkali shift, the colours move toward reds and pinks. It takes slightly better on cellulose than protein fibres, making it especially valuable for plant-based textiles.

Historical Note
The quebracho tree, native to South America, is famed not only for its dye potential but also for its extraordinary hardness (specific gravity 1.3–1.4, among the hardest known woods). Its extracts have long been used in both the tanning and dyeing industries. Traditionally, the wood was chipped and steamed in copper extractors to yield a concentrated dye liquor.

Active Coloring Compounds

• Tannins (76%)
• Flavonoids, including fisetin
• Colouring matter: Red ~5.1%, Yellow ~5.9%

CI Colour Name
Closest family: CI Natural Brown 10 / Natural Red 25.

Shading Tips

• Alum mordant → brown-reds, golden browns, pinks
• Iron post-mordant → deeper browns, greys
• Alkali shift → redder and pinker tones
• Works best on cellulose fibres but is effective on protein fibres as well

Samples shown:

• First row: 15% ATF
• Second row: no mordant
• Third row: post-mordant iron (FE)

Source
Our quebracho extract comes from a sustainable grower in Brazil:

• Organic, local production
• Extraction by-products used as an energy source
• Nursery cultivation and 500,000 trees replanted annually
• CO₂ positive footprint