This powerful tannin extract is made from the bark of Ceriops tagal, a mangrove tree traditionally used in Indonesia for timber and natural dyeing. Today, our extract is sustainably harvested through a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®)-certified project in Bali, ensuring a balance between ecological preservation and the economic needs of local communities.

The bark is carefully boiled, dried, and ground into powder, yielding a rich tannin extract that produces earthy russets, siennas, and reds, as well as deep blacks when combined with iron. Much like kakishibu (persimmon tannin), Ceriops loves cellulose fibers and develops character over time, darkening further under sunlight and UV exposure.

Sustainability & Tradition

• Byproduct of controlled mangrove plantations
• FSC®-certified: third-party audited for ecological responsibility
• Selective harvesting protects mangrove ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods
• Historically used for fishing gear, timber finishing, and textile dyeing in coastal Southeast Asia

Active dye components: condensed tannins, plobatannins, ellagic acid
CAS number: 1401-55-4
CI Natural Dye Number: none assigned

Shading Tips

• Alum: warm russets and golden browns
• Copper: deep reds and sienna tones
• Iron (ferrous sulfate): purplish blacks (post-mordant only)
• Slightly alkaline bath: shifts shades to deeper reds
• Builds in layers: multiple dips yield stronger color, similar to indigo or kakishibu techniques