Indian Blanket 1 Oz 14,000 Seeds Gaillardia pulchella USA Company

Gaillardia pulchella, commonly known as the firewheel or blanket flower, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It's native to North America, particularly in regions of the United States and Mexico, and is known for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers that come in a range of warm colors, typically red, orange, and yellow.

Key Characteristics:

Flower Appearance: Gaillardia pulchella flowers have a striking, multi-colored look, often with a deep red or orange center that fades to yellow at the tips of the petals, resembling a "wheel" or a "blanket" pattern, hence the common names "firewheel" and "blanket flower."

Growth Habit: It is a herbaceous perennial or sometimes an annual, typically growing in a low, bushy mound form, ranging from about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) in height.

Leaves: The leaves are lance-shaped, and the plant often has a dense, leafy base. They are typically covered with soft hairs, giving the plant a somewhat fuzzy texture.

Blooming Season: This plant typically blooms from late spring to fall, making it a long-blooming choice for gardens and landscaping.

Hardiness: Gaillardia pulchella is drought-tolerant and grows well in full sun, preferring well-drained soil. It’s suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3–10.

Cultivation:

Soil: Prefers light, well-drained soil and is tolerant of dry, poor soils, making it a good choice for xeriscaping (water-wise gardening).

Watering: Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, but regular watering during hot, dry periods will encourage better flowering.

Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. The more sunlight it receives, the more vibrant the blooms will be.

Maintenance: Gaillardia pulchella is generally low-maintenance but may benefit from deadheading (removing spent flowers) to encourage continuous blooming. It may die back in colder climates but often reseeds itself if conditions are right.

Uses:

Ornamental: It’s a popular choice for flower beds, borders, and wildflower gardens because of its colorful, showy flowers and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Wildlife: The plant is beneficial for local wildlife, providing nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds.

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.