Phonetic Spelling: gay-LAR-dee-uh pul-CHEL-uh
Indian blanket flower is an erect annual or perennial in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. The showy bicolored disc flowers have bold colors similar to those used by Native Americans in weaving blankets, hence the common name. The common name also could be derived from the way the plant grows "blanketing" the ground. The genus name, Gaillardia, is in honor of 18th-century French botanist Gaillard de Charentonneau. The species epithet, pulchella, means "beautiful."
This species is a major wildflower of prairies and meadows. It also is prolific on barrier islands where it grows in the soft sand along beach walkways. Indian blanket flower grows best in full sun, though it tolerates light shade; it is tolerant of most garden soils as long as they drain well and get even moisture. This species is highly drought, heat, and salt-tolerant. Indian Blanket Flower will not survive in water-logged soils.
Plant seed in the fall by direct sowing and lightly raking in. Provide constant moisture for good germination. At maturity the plant is 1.5-2 feet tall and about 1 foot wide.
The show-stopping orange and red flowers appear from summer to fall adding brightness to the landscape for a long season, and the nectar attracts butterflies. If the seed heads are left over winter they will be enjoyed by songbirds and start new plants in spring.
Indian blanket flower grows well in containers, or mass plant it for some amazing warm colors in your landscape. It works well in borders, in a cutting garden, or in a children's garden. Tuck it between small spaces in a rock or cottage garden, or let it naturalize in a meadow. Indian blanket flower has no serious insect problems, but watch for aphids and thrips.
Quick ID Hints:
Erect herb with terminal, solitary heads
Enlarged, tubular flowers, red with yellow apices
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