Blanket Flower
Native to the prairies of North America, which accounts for its exceptional drought tolerance.
Gaillardia × grandiflora is a true star of sun-drenched borders, bringing warmth and vibrant colour to the garden from June through to the first frosts. This enchanting perennial hails from the steppes of North America, where it has spent centuries adapting to drought and heat. In modern gardens, gardeners have embraced Gaillardia precisely for its unfussy nature — it delivers spectacular blooms without demanding constant attention.
The semi-double and double flowers of Gaillardia resemble tiny suns, with striking red, orange and yellow petals in endless combinations. Plant breeders have developed numerous cultivars, from compact forms ideal for rock gardens to full, bushy specimens that produce bouquet-like clusters on a single stem. Each bloom persists for weeks, and fresh buds continuously emerge throughout the season — it is this generous flowering habit that gave rise to the American common name 'Blanket Flower'.
In garden compositions, Gaillardia serves as an energetic focal point, harmonising equally well with soft pastel blooms and architectural ornamental grasses. Its drought tolerance and undemanding nature make it perfect for low-maintenance schemes, for edging borders and softening slopes where other plants struggle. Across Ukraine, from south to north, Gaillardia thrives in all regions with minimal fuss.
Fond of birds and butterflies? Gaillardia becomes a feast for them — pollinators gather in abundance at its flowers seeking nectar. This is more than just another garden plant; it is a living magnet for nature, flowering when many other beauties have succumbed to the heat. Plant it once, and it will reward you with joy for years to come.
Blanket Flower — planting & location
Long flowering season; drought-tolerant.
How to water Blanket Flower
Drought-tolerant; does not tolerate waterlogging.
Fertilizing and pruning: Blanket Flower
Remove spent flowers to encourage successive blooms.