Safflower (Atractylis or Safflower)

What is Safflower? Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) has been known since ancient times. The botanical term carthamus derives from the Arabic word “kurthum”, meaning “dye”, because the plant’s flowers were used to dye fabrics. Its Greek name is atractylis, although it is also known as safflower (derived from the ancient word “knēkos” or “knīkion”). Its flowers sometimes replace valuable saffron and are used in spice blends. It has medicinal properties, which are mainly used in alternative medicine.

The plants grow from 30 to 150 centimetres (12 to 59 inches) tall, with globular flower heads bearing yellow, orange or red flowers. Each branch usually has one to five flower heads containing 15 to 20 seeds per head. Safflower is native to dry environments with seasonal rainfall. It develops a deep root system, which enables it to thrive in such environments.