Quick Facts
- Botanical Name: Gaillardia spp.
- Common Name: Blanket Flower
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–10
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Water Needs: Low (drought-tolerant once established)
- Bloom Time: Late spring to early fall
- Mature Size: 12–24 in. tall and wide
Why Choose Gaillardia for Your Summer Garden?
Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, is a heat-loving perennial that delivers a blaze of color through the hottest summer months. Its vibrant red, orange, and yellow daisy-like blooms thrive in sunny, dry locations, making it a favorite for xeriscaping and pollinator gardens alike.
Think of it as a summer superstar: bold, cheerful, and practically sun-proof.
- Perfect for: Low-maintenance gardeners, wildflower meadows, pollinator-friendly landscapes, and hot climate borders
- Bonus: Deer-resistant and rabbit-resistant
How to Grow & Care for Gaillardia
Soil & Location
- Prefers sandy or well-drained soil
- Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.1–7.0)
- Avoid heavy clay or overly fertile soils
Light
- Needs full sun for optimal flowering
- Will not thrive in partial or full shade
Watering
- Water regularly during establishment (first 2–3 weeks)
- Once mature, water only when soil is dry
- Overwatering leads to root rot
Deadheading & Pruning
- Remove faded blooms to encourage continuous blooming
- Cut back in fall if desired for tidiness, or leave seed heads for winter interest and birds
Pests & Diseases
- Generally pest-free, but watch for aphids, leafhoppers, and whiteflies
- Avoid overcrowding to prevent powdery mildew
Beginner’s Tip
Deadhead faded blooms weekly to promote reblooming and prevent legginess.
Popular Gaillardia Varieties
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| ‘Arizona Sun’ | Bright red with golden yellow tips; compact and heavy-blooming |
| ‘Mesa Peach’ | Soft peach tones, excellent for mixed beds |
| ‘Fanfare Blaze’ | Trumpet-shaped petals in warm sunset colors |
| ‘Goblin’ | Dwarf variety, perfect for containers or edging |
Design Ideas & Companion Planting
- Pair with Russian Sage, Echinacea, Coreopsis, or Lavender for a drought-resistant, butterfly-attracting border
- Works well in rock gardens, raised beds, or mass plantings
- Leave seed heads for natural reseeding or birds in winter
Companion Planting Tips
| Companion | Benefit |
| Lavender | Aromatic foliage, similar care needs |
| Coneflower (Echinacea) | Pollinator favorite, color contrast |
| Yarrow | Enhances drought resistance & soil health |
Seasonal Calendar
| Month | Task |
| March–May | Sow seeds indoors or direct sow after frost |
| June–August | Blooming peak, deadhead regularly |
| September | Collect seeds or cut back foliage |
| October–February | Mulch in Zone 3–5 if harsh winter expected |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gaillardia survive drought?
Yes! Once established, Gaillardia thrives with minimal water.
Is Gaillardia good for pollinators?
Absolutely — bees and butterflies love it.
Does Gaillardia self-seed?
Yes, especially if you let the seed heads remain after blooming.
Pin & Share
- Pin this for your drought-tolerant garden inspiration!
- Save this guide and tag @Greenmuse for your garden photos
You Might Also Like
- How to Grow Lavender That Blooms in Summer Heat
- 7 Heat-Loving Plants That Thrive in Summer Scorch
- Coreopsis: A Cheerful Classic for Pollinator Gardens
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