Blanket Flower Plant

Gaillardia aristata, or blanket flower, is a clumping perennial native to western North America. Its daisy-like flower heads combine yellow rays with red or purple tones, and it blooms over a long summer period; its wiry stems and gray-green leaves suit sunny, open plantings. [NC State Extension Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/gaillardia-aristata/common-name/blanket-flower/) · [Missouri Botanical Garden](https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?bt=5&taxonid=277193) ## Garden use Use it in a sunny perennial border, meadow, pollinator garden, or well-drained container. The Missouri Botanical Garden lists a mature range of 1–3 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide; the current plant dimensions fall within that range. Its warm-colored heads are suitable for cutting, while spent flowers can be left to form seed. ## Growing conditions Provide full sun and fast-draining soil. NC State Extension lists zones 3a–8b and notes that it tolerates dry conditions once established; avoid sites that stay wet, especially through winter. Flowering usually spans late spring into summer, with exact timing varying by climate. ## Maintenance Water regularly during establishment, then reduce irrigation after roots are established. Removing faded flower heads can keep the clump tidy and encourage additional blooms; leave some heads if seed is desired. Cut back old stems when growth resumes in spring.