Gaillardia pulchella

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 utilized by Native Americans in weaving blankets, hence the common name. Another meaning of the common name 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." These flowers are prolific on the barrier islands and will grow in the soft sand along beach walkways.  They are now thoroughly naturalized from North Carolina to Florida, with North Carolina being its northern limit.

Prefers full sun though it tolerates light shade and is tolerant of most garden soils as long as they drain well and get even moisture.  Plant seed in the fall by direct sowing and lightly raking in.  Provide constant moisture for good germination and they will grow 1 and half to 2 feet tall and about 1 foot wide. They are highly drought, heat, and salt tolerant. 

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. 

Indian blanket flower grows well in containers, or mass plant it for some amazing warm colors in your landscape.  They work 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.

Quick ID Hints:

• Erect herb with terminal, solitary heads
• Enlarged, tubular flowers, red with yellow apices

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems but watch for aphids and thrips.  Indian Blanket Flower will not survive in water-logged soils.