The "Saw" of Saw-wort refers to the serrated edges to the narrow leaves of this plant and "tinctoria" to the fact that mixed with alum (the commonest mordant) it made an excellent green-yellow dye.

It is found throughout England and Wales but hardly at all in Ireland and Scotland.

Greena Moor, Cornwall 20th July 2008

Added on September 7th 2008, updated 7th February 2012