Firewheel, Indian Blanket, Blanket Flower
gaillardia pulchella
Also known as: ["Firewheel","Indian Blanket","Blanket Flower"]
Overview
A vibrant, drought-tolerant perennial known for its striking red and yellow bi-colored flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Gaillardia |
| Botanical Name: | Gaillardia pulchella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during blooming season; light pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C). Tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F/10°C.
Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none required in fall and winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop in late summer to encourage hardiness.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds are the most common method for Gaillardia pulchella.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in spring after last frost.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node; trim leggy stems to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Prune lightly to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Hand pruners, clean scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged growth; deadhead regularly; prune in early spring if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move containers indoors; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may decline in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGaillardia pulchella is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is safe for feline contact and ingestion, with no known adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGaillardia pulchella is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a significant risk if ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGaillardia pulchella, commonly known as Firewheel or Indian Blanket, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a flowering plant that is generally safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Gaillardia pulchella?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Gaillardia pulchella attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Gaillardia pulchella be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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