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Description
Gaillardia Aristata, commonly known as Blanket Flower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This flower is native to North America and has been widely cultivated for its attractive blooms. The plant can grow up to 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has a clump-forming growth habit and produces numerous flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. Gaillardia Aristata is commonly used in flower borders, rock gardens, and as cut flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gaillardia |
Appearance
The Blanket Flower has colorful daisy-like flowers that are 2-3 inches wide. The flowers have a central disk that is surrounded by ray petals in shades of red, yellow, and orange. The leaves are lance-shaped, green, and hairy. The plant has a sturdy stem that is covered with fine hairs. Gaillardia Aristata blooms from early summer to fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Gaillardia Aristata is a low-maintenance plant that can grow in a variety of soil types. Here’s how to care for your Blanket Flower:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to part shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Gaillardia Aristata is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gaillardia Aristata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
- Diseases: Powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Habitat
Gaillardia Aristata is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Gaillardia Aristata in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Gaillardia Aristata in a container as long as the container has drainage holes and the plant is provided with adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Blanket Flower?
A: Fertilize your Gaillardia Aristata once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I divide my Blanket Flower?
A: Yes, you can divide your Gaillardia Aristata in the spring or fall to rejuvenate the plant and promote growth.
Q: How do I deadhead my Blanket Flower?
A: Deadhead your Gaillardia Aristata by removing the spent flowers to promote continued blooming.
Related Plants
- Gaillardia x grandiflora
- Gaillardia pulchella
- Gaillardia pinnatifida
- Gaillardia spathulata
References
- Clemson Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). Blanketflower. Clemson University. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/blanketflower/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gaillardia aristata. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=248642&isprofile=0&
- Rodgers, N. J. (2019). Gaillardia aristata. University of Illinois Extension. https://web.extension.illinois.edu/plantaindex/plant_details.cfm?PlantID=1046
