Also known as Blanket-Flower · Brown-Eyed Susan · Common Blanketflower
Great blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata) is a vibrant perennial native to western North America, known for its daisy-like, rayed flowers in shades of red, yellow, and or
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal flowering and healthy growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water deeply when the soil is dry to the touch, reducing frequency once established. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Gaillardia aristata is quite drought-tolerant.
Water only when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, typically during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Deadheading spent blooms throughout the flowering season encourages more prolific blooming and prevents self-seeding. In late fall or early spring, cut back the plant to about 10-15 cm above the ground to tidy its appearance and promote vigorous new growth for the next season.
Gaillardia aristata can be propagated by division of established clumps in early spring or fall. Seed propagation is also possible; sow seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors after the last frost.
Germination typically takes 10-20 days at 18-21°C.
Repotting is generally not a concern for Gaillardia aristata as it is typically grown as an herbaceous perennial in garden beds. If grown in containers, repot in spring every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to refresh the soil and prevent root-bound conditions.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Great Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gaillardia |
| Species | Gaillardia aristata |
Similar in genus Gaillardia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
