Rubia tinctorum, commonly known as madder, is a flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The plant is recognized for its bright red dye, which is extracted from its roots. Historically, madder dye has been used in textiles, particularly in wool and cotton fabrics, giving them a rich, vibrant color. Madder grows as a climbing or trailing perennial, reaching heights of up to 1 meter. It features small, star-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters and produces berries that contain seeds. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and prefers sunny locations, making it a popular choice for gardens and dyeing purposes.