3 named cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Blanket Flower

Gaillardia aristata

The Story

Plant Bio

A perennial flowering plant known for its daisy-like blooms and ability to thrive in dry conditions.

Popular for its vibrant yellow and red flowering, providing long-lasting blooms throughout the growing season.

Uses & Benefits:

Gaillardia's vibrant, fiery blooms add striking color to sunny gardens, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, it requires minimal watering and care, making it ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Provides nectar for beneficial insects and supports local pollinator populations.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture without overwatering.
Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Water regularly during dry spells to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
Divide mature plants in early spring or fall for vigorous growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun exposure for optimal flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Prune dead or damaged foliage to promote new growth
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during peak flowering
Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer which can reduce blooms
Do not plant in shaded areas, as it prefers full sun

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright, drought-tolerant border plantsWildflower meadows with vibrant, fiery colorsSunny rock gardens with textured foliage

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Liatris spicata Rudbeckia hirta Sedum spp.Coreopsis tinctoria

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blanket Flower questions

What zones can Blanket Flower grow in?

Blanket Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blanket Flower deer resistant?

Yes — Blanket Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blanket Flower bloom?

Blanket Flower typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blanket Flower need full sun?

Blanket Flower does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Blanket Flower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blanket Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.