Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella)
Gaillardia pulchella, commonly known as Indian Blanket, is a short-lived perennial or annual wildflower native to parts of North America, though it is more common in the southern and central U.S. While not native to Illinois, it can thrive in well-drained soils and is often grown in gardens for its vibrant blooms and drought tolerance.
This plant features striking, daisy-like flowers with red centers and bright yellow edges, creating a flame-like appearance. Blooming from late spring to fall, Gaillardia pulchella is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It grows 1 to 2 feet tall, forming bushy clumps with slender, gray-green leaves.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Gaillardia pulchella can be a beautiful addition to pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, and xeriscapes. It thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils and prefers full sun. Resistant to drought and deer browsing, it is a low-maintenance choice for adding long-lasting color and supporting local pollinators. While not originally part of Illinois' native flora, it can still be a beneficial and visually appealing plant in native-friendly landscapes.
Gaillardia pulchella, commonly known as Indian Blanket, is a short-lived perennial or annual wildflower native to parts of North America, though it is more common in the southern and central U.S. While not native to Illinois, it can thrive in well-drained soils and is often grown in gardens for its vibrant blooms and drought tolerance.
This plant features striking, daisy-like flowers with red centers and bright yellow edges, creating a flame-like appearance. Blooming from late spring to fall, Gaillardia pulchella is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It grows 1 to 2 feet tall, forming bushy clumps with slender, gray-green leaves.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Gaillardia pulchella can be a beautiful addition to pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, and xeriscapes. It thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils and prefers full sun. Resistant to drought and deer browsing, it is a low-maintenance choice for adding long-lasting color and supporting local pollinators. While not originally part of Illinois' native flora, it can still be a beneficial and visually appealing plant in native-friendly landscapes.
Gaillardia pulchella, commonly known as Indian Blanket, is a short-lived perennial or annual wildflower native to parts of North America, though it is more common in the southern and central U.S. While not native to Illinois, it can thrive in well-drained soils and is often grown in gardens for its vibrant blooms and drought tolerance.
This plant features striking, daisy-like flowers with red centers and bright yellow edges, creating a flame-like appearance. Blooming from late spring to fall, Gaillardia pulchella is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It grows 1 to 2 feet tall, forming bushy clumps with slender, gray-green leaves.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Gaillardia pulchella can be a beautiful addition to pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, and xeriscapes. It thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils and prefers full sun. Resistant to drought and deer browsing, it is a low-maintenance choice for adding long-lasting color and supporting local pollinators. While not originally part of Illinois' native flora, it can still be a beneficial and visually appealing plant in native-friendly landscapes.
Bloom: summer to fall
Habitats: meadows; prairies
Lifespan: annual
Moisture: dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: chalk; loam; sand