Carthamus

Carthamus

Safflower (Cathamus tinctorius) known as cartamus lun sanflor is native to Asia. It is one of the oldest useful plants. For centuries it has been known and valued for its aesthetic qualities (safflower garlands were found in Tutankhamun's tomb) and medicinal properties. At first glance it resembles a thistle, but belongs to the aster family. Safflower is a perennial, but due to the cold winters in Poland it is grown as an annual plant. It is used in many industries, but above all we can currently find it as an ornamental plant in garden beds or in dried bouquets for the vase.

Carthamus - plant characteristics

Carthamus is an annual perennial, usually reaching a height of 30 to 150 cm. Its erect stems form dense clumps, and the leaves are lanceolate, toothed and arranged alternately on the stems. One of the characteristic features of safflower are the bright red/orange flowers, which develop singly at the ends of the stems, resembling brushes. The inflorescences consist of a compact group of spikes, which form spike-like flower heads. Safflower flowers are corolla-like, and their intense color attracts pollinating insects such as bees. The fruits of safflower resemble sunflower seeds and contain valuable seeds rich in saflor oil.

Carthamus - occurance & cultivation

Safflower is a plant originally native to areas of the Middle East, India to be exact, but is now widely cultivated around the world. Cultivation of safflower is particularly common in countries with temperate and subtropical climates, including the United States, India, China, Australia and Europe. It prefers well-lit sunny sites and moderately moist soils. Although it is relatively drought tolerant, regular watering can make a significant difference in producing a bountiful crop. Safflower seeds are usually sown in spring, after the risk of frost has passed. In terms of soil, safflower is quite adaptable, but grows best in fertile soils with good structure and permeability. Caring for safflower is relatively easy, but it is a good idea to water the plant regularly during periods of drought. Although the plant is generally resistant to pests, it blooms from July to August.

Carthamus and its wide applications - from oil industry to floristry

Valuable safflower oil is extracted from safflower seeds. It is rich in fatty acids such as oleic acid and linoleic acid, and finds its place in the kitchen as a healthy cooking oil suitable for various culinary purposes. In addition, it is used in the cosmetic industry by adding to skin care products. In the textile industry, safflower flowers were once used to extract a dye that dyed fabrics an intense red. Although the use of this dye is less common today, it still plays a role in some traditional dyeing techniques. Safflower is a honey-producing plant. The flowers of this plant provide nectar, which makes it attractive to honey bees. Bees collecting nectar from safflower can produce honey with a unique flavor and aroma.

Dried cartamus in floristry

Safflower is an ideal plant for dried bouquets. It goes through the drying process perfectly, retaining its color. It will be a beautiful addition to compositions and bouquets in a rustic and naturalistic climate. In addition, we can use it to create garlands and harvest wreaths. The dried flowers of cartamus themselves, in an intense orange color, will find use in compositions under a dome or 3D paintings of dried flowers. Placed in a glass vase with setaria, poppy and zatwian will be a lasting interior decoration.

Choose dried cartamus from Secca

Secca offers dried safflower in 90-100g bouquets, with 15-20 heads. The length of the bundle is 50-60cm. The safflower comes from our cultivation. It is hand-planted, harvested and then dried by us. If you have a business, remember that you can use the Secca B2B dried flowers wholesaler, where you will find a special price list for companies and a discount system.