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Description
Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to North and South America, where it grows in prairies, meadows, and rocky areas. Gaillardia is a popular garden plant that is loved for its bright and colorful flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are typically red, yellow, or orange with a distinctive central disk that looks like a button.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gaillardia |
Appearance
Gaillardia is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a clumping habit with a basal rosette of leaves that are lance-shaped and hairy. The leaves are typically green but can be tinged with a reddish-brown color. The flowers are daisy-like with a diameter of 2-3 inches and have ray florets that are usually red, yellow, or orange. The central disk is brown or black and is covered with tiny tubular florets.
Care Guide
Gaillardia is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Gaillardia:
- Water: Gaillardia is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.
- Fertilization: Gaillardia does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
- Soil: Gaillardia prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Amend heavy soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Gaillardia thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to flower well.
- Hardiness Zones: Gaillardia is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gaillardia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Gaillardia can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Gaillardia is native to North and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats such as prairies, meadows, and rocky areas. It is a drought-tolerant plant that is adapted to hot and dry conditions. Gaillardia is an important plant for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gaillardia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gaillardia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should Gaillardia be fertilized?
A: Gaillardia does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Q: Is Gaillardia deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Gaillardia is deer-resistant. Deer do not usually eat this plant.
Q: How do I deadhead Gaillardia?
A: Deadhead Gaillardia by removing spent flowers with a pair of scissors or garden shears. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Related Plants
- Coreopsis
- Rudbeckia
- Echinacea
- Achillea
- Penstemon
References
- “Gaillardia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b737>
- “Gaillardia.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <https://extension.illinois.edu/perennial-plant/gaillardia>
- “Blanket Flower (Gaillardia).” Gardening Know How. Accessed 15 Sep. 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/blanket-flower/growing-blanket-flowers.htm>
