Blanket Flower 500 Seeds Gaillardia aristata USA Company

Gaillardia aristata, commonly known as the common blanket flower or Prairie gaillardia, is another species of Gaillardia, closely related to Gaillardia pulchella but with some distinct differences. It's a perennial plant native to North America, particularly the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and surrounding regions. Like its relative, it is prized for its colorful, daisy-like flowers and its resilience in sunny, drought-prone environments.

Key Characteristics:

Flower Appearance: The flowers of Gaillardia aristata are typically larger than those of Gaillardia pulchella, with bright, warm colors ranging from red, orange, and yellow, often arranged in a concentric pattern. The center is usually a darker red or maroon color, with the outer petals often yellow or golden. The blooms are about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) across.

Growth Habit: This species is a perennial, growing in clumps or mounds that can reach 18-30 inches (45-76 cm) in height. It has a bushy, upright growth habit, making it suitable for borders or as part of a mixed flower bed.

Leaves: The leaves are lance-shaped or oval, often with a slightly hairy texture. They form a basal rosette at the base of the plant and become progressively smaller along the stems.

Blooming Season: Gaillardia aristata typically blooms from early summer to fall, often producing a succession of flowers over a long period, especially if deadheaded regularly. It is known for its extended blooming season, with vibrant colors that persist throughout the summer and into the fall.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 3-10, making it suitable for a variety of climates, though it does best in areas with warm summers and cold winters (a true perennial in many northern climates).

Growing Instructions

1. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet.
2. Put the seeds on the soil.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
4. Water the seeds.
5. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun or part shade.
6. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.