Gaillardia ×grandiflora, commonly known as Blanket Flower, is a deciduous perennial herb that is a hybrid of Gaillardia aristata and Gaillardia pulchella. It is native to North America, specifically thriving in prairies, plains, and other open, well-drained areas. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) and spreads about 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters). Blanket Flower is celebrated for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers, which feature bold shades of red, orange, and yellow, blooming from early summer to fall. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

The Blanket Flower is a popular choice for gardeners due to its bright, long-lasting blooms and its ability to withstand hot, dry conditions, making it an excellent plant for xeriscaping. It is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover. This plant prefers full sun exposure and is tolerant of a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. ’Dazzler’, a notable cultivar, has distinctive orange flowers with yellow tips. While Gaillardia ×grandiflora is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to aster yellows disease and may require division every 2-3 years to maintain vigor. It is also important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. The Royal Horticultural Society has recognized the Blanket Flower with its Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding garden performance.CC BY-SA 4.0