The CSS forest green is lighter than most people expect
Ask someone to picture forest green and they usually imagine pine needles in shade. The CSS keyword forestgreen, #228B22, is brighter than that: a sunny, grassy green. The “Forest Green” in the community colour-name list, #154406, is the deep version. Choose based on what you are matching.
| Name | HEX | Lightness | White text |
|---|---|---|---|
| forestgreen (CSS) | #228B22 | 34% | 4.39:1, just short of AA |
| darkgreen (CSS) | #006400 | 20% | 7.44:1 |
| Forest Green (name list) | #154406 | 15% | 11.28:1 |
| Hunter Green (name list) | #0B4008 | 14% | 11.99:1 |
Forest green vs hunter green
In the name list the two are almost twins: hunter green is a shade darker and a little purer green (hue 117° against forest's 105°, which leans yellow). In everyday use, “hunter” tends to mean the darkest, most traditional green, the kind on wax jackets and old library lamps. If you need white text on it, either works brilliantly.
What goes with forest green
Deep forest green with cream and tan feels outdoorsy and heritage. Add gold and burgundy and you get the traditional winter-holiday palette. For an eco or garden brand, pair it with natural wood tones and keep bright accents to a minimum.
Questions
What is the RGB value of forest green?
CSS forest green is rgb(34, 139, 34). The darker list value #154406 is rgb(21, 68, 6).
Is forest green the same as emerald?
No. Emerald is more saturated and slightly bluer; forest green is earthier. See emerald green.