Gaillardia, a member of the Rubiaceae family, is called BLANKET FLOWER. There are 26 species, of which Gaillardia aestivalis, aristata, pinnatifida, pulchella, and x grandiflora are perennials in cultivation. They can be grown in moderate to dry watering conditions.

Gaillardia x grandiflora, a perennial, is of garden origin and has naturalized in the South-western United States. It is a cross between Gaillardia pulchella and G. aristata. There are numerous varieties in cultivation. This BLANKET FLOWER (aka INDIAN BLANKET or FIREWHEEL) can be grown in Zones 4-9, flowers in spring, summer and fall, and grows from seed to just over a 1 foot high to 1 1/2 feet wide. The petals are orange with yellow tips and is daisy form. The blossoms of 'Fanfare' sometimes present a wider flare at the tip of the petal. It can be grown in sun or light shade. It will continue to bloom without deadheading (and birds might like the seeds).

Gaillardia x grandiflora is a charming plant that produces abundant flowers over a long growing season and is attractive to birds, bees, and butterflies. Honey bees in particular love this plant. Gaillardia can be grown in containers - you can easily compose a large container using it to fill out the bottom when paired with a taller plant.

There are numerous butterflies that feed on plants in the Compositae family. Gaillardia appeals in particular to these butterflies:
Agraulis vanillae, Gulf Fritillary
Colias alexandra, Queen Alexandra's Sulphur
Pontia protodice, Checkered White
Speyeria hesperis, Northwestern Fritillary