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Description
Gaillardia Grandiflora Mesa Yellow is a perennial plant species native to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is also commonly known as Blanketflower. Its scientific name is derived from the French magistrate, Gaillard de Charentonneau, who was an avid botanist. Mesa Yellow is a popular cultivar of Blanketflower due to its striking yellow and red flowers that bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gaillardia |
Appearance
Gaillardia Grandiflora Mesa Yellow grows up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green and slightly hairy. The flowers are daisy-like, with yellow petals and red centers. They can grow up to 3 inches in diameter and are held on sturdy, branching stems. The plant blooms prolifically throughout the summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Water: Mesa Yellow prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize Mesa Yellow with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.Soil: Mesa Yellow prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.Sunlight: Mesa Yellow grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Mesa Yellow is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mesa Yellow is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or thrips. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur in poorly-draining soil, so make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Mesa Yellow is native to North America and can be found growing in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning behind the name Blanketflower?
A: Blanketflower refers to the colorful blankets woven by Native Americans, which the flowers are said to resemble.Q: Can Mesa Yellow be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mesa Yellow can be grown in containers but make sure the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.Q: Does Mesa Yellow require deadheading?
A: Deadheading is not necessary, but it can encourage more blooms and prolong the flowering season.Q: Can Mesa Yellow be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Mesa Yellow can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
Other popular cultivars of Gaillardia Grandiflora include Goblin, Burgundy, and Arizona Sun.
References
- “Gaillardia Grandiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278038&isprofile=0&basic=gaillardia%20grandiflora
- “Gaillardia Grandiflora.” University of Wisconsin-Madison. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/gaillardia-grandiflora/
- “Blanketflower.” National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/articles/blanketflower.htm
