Common blanket flower is a herbaceous perennial native to northwestern and north central US where it grows in meadows. It is a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, that also includes daisy, yarrow and lettuce. Plants grow 1-3′ tall and have hairy, branched stems carrying lanceolate leaves that are densely hairy, up to 6″ long and are clustered at the base. From late spring to fall solitary flowerheads appear at the end of long stalks. They are 1.5-3″ across and have a center of purplish red disc flowers surrounded by 6-18 yellow ray flowers that are 3 lobed at the tip and have a red base. Each flowerhead is subtended by pointed, lanceolate, hairy bracts. The flowerheads attract butterflies and give way to seedheads that attract birds. Common blanket flower is a good choice for borders, butterfly, wildlife, native plant, and prairie gardens where their long bloom time can add abundant color for months. The genus name, Gaillardia, honors Gaillard de Charentonneau, a French magistrate and enthusiastic botanist. The specific epithet, aristata, comes from the Latin word arista that means bristle, and refers to the hairs on the leaves, stem, and/or fruit.
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Bloom: Solitary flowerheads with purplish red disc flowers surrounded by yellow ray flowers with dark red bases, from late spring to fall
Size: 1-3′ H x 1-2′ W
Light: Full sun
Soil: Average, moderately moist, well-drained
Hardiness: Zones 3-8
Care: If flowering slows in summer cut back to encourage rebloom in fall.
Pests and Diseases: Generally healthy but powdery mildew, aster yellows and leaf spot can be a problem.
Propagation: Seed, division, separation of offsets
Companion Plants: Russian sage, white yarrow, purple mallow poppy