The Gaillardia or Blanket Flower blooms a long time in rich tones of burgundy, browns and oranges...

The above image of Goblin variety was taken from my middle garden July 8, 2009 while the image below of the Burgundy variety was taken September 6, 2009.

About The Gaillardia

The Gaillardia or Blanket Flower gives any garden a naturalized look with shades of browns, yellows and bronzes. Did you know that the Blanket Flower was so named because to this day it still 'blankets' most of the US states? Apparently it re-seeds very easily. Good to know.

In choosing this perennial I wanted to purchase a plant that would compliment the multitude of Gazania annuals already planted in my middle garden. So...while the Blanket Flowers grow and bloom prolifically, the Gazanias have disappeared into the stomach of Bugs, the bunny. My husband neglected to turn on the Scarecrow one evening and by morning only a handful of the annuals remained.

How To Grow The Gaillardia

Belonging to the Aster Family, the daisy-like blooms grow single on a somewhat hairy texture stem. In reading the tag, it stated that this perennial grows into a compact mound. Only the Goblin, a dwarf variety grow 8" to 12" in height (the image above). Other varieties like the Burgundy reach 30" in height (image below), ergo if you do not stake the plants, the stems and flowers fall over. Nevertheless, the 3" to 4" wine colored flowers are quite striking and they bloom from June to September.

While butterflies love this perennial deer and rabbits do not. Thank goodness! Growing them in full sun is best however they will tolerate a part sun location. Remember to deadhead the spent blooms. With your garden scissors or snips, cut off the stems right down to the base of the plant. This will encourage more buds and keep the plant looking tidy.

Some great companion plants: Gazania, Calendula, Black Eyed Susan or the Rudbeckia.

Check out my Site Index Page for a listing of additional annuals and perennials when planning a garden.

Gaillardia Features

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