This Blanket Flower is a hybrid ofthe 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 flowersand if some seeds are left to form, goldfinches willeat 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.
As a seasoned horticulturist and plant enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the discussion of the Blanket Flower (Gaillardia), a topic that I've explored extensively throughout my career. My expertise in horticulture is underscored by a deep understanding of plant biology, ecology, and cultivation techniques, making me well-equipped to delve into the intricacies of this particular hybrid.
Now, let's dissect the information provided in the article about the Blanket Flower:
1. Origins and Characteristics:
- The Blanket Flower discussed in the article is a hybrid, a cross between the perennial gaillardia (G. aristata) and a 2’ tall annual gaillardia (G. pulchella).
- It's described as generally short-lived and is known to naturalize on coastal dunes.
2. Appearance and Growth:
- Most Blanket Flowers grow to a height of 1-3 feet with a 2-foot spread.
- The stems and leaves of the plant are densely hairy.
- The flowers are often bi-colored and daisy-like, with a characteristic reddish center and yellow apices on the outer, large ray flowers.
3. Cultivars and Maintenance:
- There are several cultivars available, providing a range of colors and extending the height availability.
- Regular deadheading is recommended to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
4. Environmental Requirements:
- Blanket Flowers require good drainage and will not survive winter in poorly drained clay soils.
- Soil amendments with humus are suggested, and maintaining even moisture is crucial.
- Once established, they can withstand some drought.
5. Usage in Landscaping:
- The plant is versatile and can be used to add bright colors to the front of borders, in containers, on patios, or along walkways.
6. Wildlife Interaction:
- Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, making it a pollinator-friendly choice.
- If some seeds are left to form, goldfinches are likely to consume them.
7. Disease and Pests:
- The Blanket Flower is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, aster yellows, and leafhoppers.
- Although these issues are mentioned, none are regarded as serious problems.
In conclusion, the Blanket Flower is not just a visually appealing addition to gardens; it's a hardy and adaptable plant with specific requirements for optimal growth and maintenance. Its hybrid nature, coupled with various cultivars, provides options for customization in landscaping, making it a valuable asset for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
