Photo Credit: Flickr user, StoneHorse Studios

If you are from the United States, you have probably seen this flower before. The Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) is a plant native to central U.S and Canada and is a common wildflower in the U.S.

These large, showy flowers are called Blanket Flowers because they typically have red petals, edged with yellow, which are the colours of traditional Mexican blankets. Blanket flowers look like daisies with serrated tips on the petals. Flowers measure 4 inches in diameter and will grow to a height of 1-3 feet tall. Leaves are hairy.

Blanket flowers are perfect for covering up bare patches in the garden. Plant them in masses for the best visual impact. Just like their relatives (i.e sunflowers,daisies and asters), gaillardia will add colour and cheer to your garden. These sun-loving perennials thrive in hot, dry climates and will bloom from summer until the first frost. They are easy to grow, hardy, deer resistant and drought tolerant. Plus, their bright colours will sure to attract butterflies and bees to your garden! Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Stake taller varieties. And because they are drought tolerant, they don’t need need much watering. These beauties would be ideal for beds, borders and containers.  Deadhead to keep them blooming all season long.

Blanket flowers would make beautiful, long lasting cut flowers.

Other names for this flower include: Indian Flower, Firewheel

Climate zones: 3-11

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