Madder  (Rubia tinctorum)
Family: Rubiaceae
Climbing evergreen perennial native to the Mediterranean and southern Europe .  Hardy to -5 degreees F.  The plant is a classic element of the Medieval garden, completely unique, wending its way along the ground or draping on fence or trellis.  The yellow, star-like flowers are produced in the second year after which the roots may be dug.  Madder root contains the anthraquinone pigment alizarin, which is responsible for its popularity as a fine red dyeplant.  (The English “red coats” owed their visability to this plant!) The root is also employed medicinally for treating urinary gravel, dropsy, amenorrhoea and jaundice.  Plant prefers regular garden soil and full sun. 
 
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