Mesa™ Yellow Gaillardia

Mesa™ Yellow is a first-year-flowering blanket flower with bright yellow daisy blooms on a compact, upright plant. Its clear color works well as a sunny repeat through a border or as a bright contrast in mixed containers, and the flowers can also be cut for simple arrangements. ## Garden Use PanAmerican Seed lists the PAS888653 selection at about 14–16 inches tall and 20–22 inches wide, with an upright, well-branched habit. Plant it in full sun in a grouped drift or near the front of a sunny border; leave room for the clump to spread. The All-America Selections profile identifies yellow flowers and notes their use for cutting and value to butterflies. ## Growing Conditions Use soil that drains freely and water regularly through establishment. Once established, Mesa varieties are described by their breeder as very drought tolerant, though containers and extreme heat may still need occasional irrigation. PanAmerican lists the series for USDA zones 5a–10b. Sources: [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/027700915006060/gaillardia-mesa-yellow/), [All-America Selections](https://all-americaselections.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/AAS_Winner_data_sign_8_x_10_Gaillardia_Mesa_Yellow.pdf), [University of Wisconsin Extension](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/blanket-flower-gaillardia-spp/). ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers to keep the planting tidy and encourage continued bloom. Cut back old stems after flowering has finished, or leave a few seed heads for a more natural look.