The blanket flower (Gaillardia), also known as Gaillardia pulchella or Indian Blanket, is a brightly colored, hardy perennial plant native to North and South America. It is part of the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers and daisies.
The name "blanket flower" comes from its vibrant, blanket-like appearance, with red, yellow, and orange hues resembling traditional Native American blankets.
Features Of The Blanket Flower
The flowers are daisy-like, with large, showy, multicolored petals, often red at the center and fading into yellow at the tips. The central disk can be reddish-brown or yellow.
It blooms from late spring to early fall, producing abundant flowers lasting throughout the summer.
Where To Grow Blanket Flower
Blanket flowers are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 10, but they are adaptable to both cooler and warmer regions.
- In colder regions, blanket flowers may behave as short-lived perennials or need to be grown annually. They are relatively cold-tolerant but may benefit from winter protection, such as mulch.
- In warmer climates, blanket flowers perform as perennials, often blooming profusely throughout the summer and fall.
Blanket flowers are drought-tolerant and prefer full sun. They are often used in xeriscaping, low-maintenance gardens, or places with hot, dry summers.
They attract pollinators with their nectar-rich flowers and provide a valuable food source throughout their blooming season.