perennialN. America Native

White Firewheel

Gaillardia aestivalis 'winkleri'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers well-drained conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Texas

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Also known as White Firewheel, this Texas native perennial has delicate, daisy-like white or pale pink flowers with notched petals. It forms a low mound of gray-green, lobed leaves. This variety is noted for its profuse, long-lasting white blooms and exceptional heat and drought tolerance, making it ideal for xeriscapes and sunny, dry borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, cheerful flowers add vibrant color to gardens and borders.

Low water needs make it ideal for xeriscaping.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Deadhead to promote continuous bloom 🌸
Divide in early spring for best results
Apply a light fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
Skip deadheading, reduce flowering ❌
Plant in shady spots, less blooms ❌
Use heavy fertilizers, may cause foliage burn ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with vibrant flowersDrought-tolerant garden bedWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Echinacea Salvia Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Firewheel questions

What zones can White Firewheel grow in?

White Firewheel is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Firewheel deer resistant?

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

When does White Firewheel bloom?

White Firewheel 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 White Firewheel need full sun?

White Firewheel does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is White Firewheel drought tolerant?

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