Japanese Indigo Seeds (Persicaria tinctoria)

Japanese Indigo Seed

Persicaria tinctoria — The Classic Indigo for Dyeing

Japanese indigo is the heart of traditional indigo dyeing—grown for centuries specifically for its ability to produce rich, reliable blues. Unlike many indigo plants grown primarily as ornamentals, Japanese indigo is prized for its high pigment content, making it a favorite of natural dyers, fiber artists, and anyone who wants to grow color from the ground up.

This fast-growing annual thrives in warm weather and responds generously to regular harvesting. Its tender green leaves can be used fresh for ice dyeing and small-batch blues, or fermented for deeper, layered indigo tones. With consistent cutting, plants branch beautifully and continue producing leaves throughout the growing season.

Japanese indigo prefers sun, moisture, and fertile soil—but it’s forgiving and accessible even for first-time dye gardeners. It grows equally well in garden beds, raised beds, and large containers, making it ideal for both rural gardens and smaller studio spaces.

This is a plant for makers. For those who want to experience the full arc of indigo—from seed to leaf to vat to cloth—Japanese indigo is where the journey begins.

Why you’ll love growing Japanese indigo

• High pigment content ideal for natural dyeing
• Fast-growing and highly productive
• Excellent for fresh-leaf and fermented indigo vats
• Thrives in garden beds or containers
• A true dyer’s indigo with a long history of use

Each packet includes 50-100 Japanese indigo seeds with clear growing instructions tailored to your planting zone, so you can confidently grow your own blue—one leaf at a time.