Indian Blanket/Fire Wheel
Gaillardia pulchella (Asteraceae)
A hardy, drought tolerant annual native to the central United States. Easily established from seed, it forms dense colonies of brilliant red flowers with yellow rims. The flower diameter is slightly smaller than its perennial cousin Gaillardia aristata. An excellent variety of coastal beach-front property or sand dune reclamation sites. Thrives in heat and full sun in well drained soils.
Average planting success with this species: 80%
Height: 1 1/2-2 feet
Germination: 15-45 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 70-75F
Sowing depth: 1/8"
Blooming period: May-September
Average seeds per pound: 153,000
Seeding rate: 10 lbs. per acre
Suggested use: Roadsides, drainage ditch slopes, open fields, mixes.
Miscellaneous: One of the most adaptable annual composites growing from Mexico, north into British Columbia. An excellent cut flower with a vase life from six to ten days.
