Gaillardia x grandiflora

This Blanket Flower is a hybrid of the perennial gaillardia (G. aristata) and a 2’ tall annual gaillardia (G. pulchella) and is generally short-lived. It is naturalized on coastal dunes and is resistant to damage by deer. There are several cultivars available to extend the color and height availability.

Most grow 1-3 feet tall with a 2-foot spread and if kept deadheaded will bloom most of the season. The stems and leaves are densely hairy and the flowers are often bi-colored and daisy-like.

Good drainage is a must as they will not survive the winter in poorly drained clay soils. Amend the soil with humus and keep evenly moist. They can survive some drought once established. Use this plant to add bright colors to the front of the border, in containers, on the patio or along walkways. Bees and butterflies will visit the flowers and if some seeds are left to form, goldfinches will eat them.

Quick ID Hints:

• Erect herb with terminal head, center reddish, flattened dome-shaped
• Ray flowers large, outer, red with yellow apices

 Susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, aster yellows, and leafhoppers, but none regarded as serious problems.