Also known as Eastern Brazilwood, Indian Redwood, Patanga (Sanskrit), Su Fang (Chinese), Suōgān (Japanese).

Sappanwood is a close relative of the endangered Pernambuco (Caesalpinia echinata), but unlike its cousin, it remains a renewable and sustainable dye source. Prepared from the heartwood of the tree, sappanwood produces a brilliant spectrum of reds, purples, and oranges, depending on mordant and pH.

Historical Note
Sappanwood has been traded for centuries across Asia and Europe, valued both for its use in medicine and as a prestigious dye plant. In medieval times, sappanwood and brazilwood were among the most sought-after red dyestuffs, long before cochineal and madder rose to dominance. Its versatility and intensity made it a staple of early dye houses, from India and Southeast Asia to European workshops.

Main dye compound: Brazilin → Brazilein 
CI Natural Red 22

Shading Tips

• Alum  warm red to crimson, improved lightfastness
• Acidic bath (vinegar, citric acid)  brighter, clearer reds
• Alkaline bath (soda ash, calcium carbonate)  purples and deep violets
• Copper  brownish-reds
• Iron (post-mordant)  muted plums and greyed purples
• Overdye with indigo for rich violets and wine tones

Source
Sustainably harvested heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan, cultivated in Asia.