Blanket flower (Gaillardia × grandiflora) is a colorful, relatively low-maintenance perennial known for its daisy-like flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, and burgundy. A hybrid of Gaillardia aristata and Gaillardia pulchella, it produces flowers from early summer into fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Blanket flowers perform best in full sun and well-drained soil and are particularly well suited to hot, dry garden sites. Once established, they tolerate drought and relatively poor soil, while overly rich or consistently wet conditions can lead to weak growth and problems with crown or root rot. Depending on the cultivar, plants generally grow about 1–3 feet tall and work well in borders, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, rock gardens, and prairie-style plantings.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to grow and care for blanket flowers, including their sunlight, soil, watering, fertilizing, pruning, and hardiness requirements. You’ll also discover popular varieties, how to grow blanket flowers from seed, propagation by division, companion plants, common problems, and how to keep the plants blooming throughout the growing season.
Flower Lovers Want to Know
How do you care for blanket flowers?
Blanket flowers grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly while newly planted, but once established, allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. Avoid overly rich soil and excessive fertilizer, which can produce weak, floppy growth. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage continued blooming.
What are the best growing conditions for blanket flowers?
Blanket flowers perform best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day and average to poor, well-drained soil. They tolerate heat and drought once established but do not perform well in consistently wet or waterlogged conditions. Good drainage is particularly important for successful overwintering.
How do you grow blanket flowers from seed?
Sow blanket flower seeds on the surface of well-drained soil and press them lightly into place rather than covering them deeply, as the seeds benefit from light during germination. Keep the soil lightly moist until seedlings emerge, typically within about 2–3 weeks under suitable conditions. Seeds can be started indoors or sown directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Do blanket flowers come back every year?
Blanket flowers are perennials and can return for several years when grown within their recommended hardiness range and provided with well-drained soil. However, Gaillardia × grandiflora is often relatively short-lived, and individual plants may decline after a few years. Poor winter drainage can also reduce their lifespan.
Do blanket flowers spread?
Blanket flowers form gradually expanding clumps rather than spreading aggressively through underground runners. They may also self-seed if spent flower heads are left on the plants, allowing new seedlings to appear nearby. Deadheading can help limit unwanted self-seeding.
When do blanket flowers bloom?
Blanket flowers typically begin blooming in early summer and can continue producing flowers into fall. Regular deadheading encourages continued flowering, although leaving some seed heads later in the season can provide seeds for wildlife and allow the plants to self-sow.
How tall do blanket flowers grow?
Most Gaillardia × grandiflora cultivars grow approximately 1–3 feet tall, with a spread of about 1–2 feet. Mature size varies by cultivar, with compact varieties suitable for containers and the front of borders and taller varieties better suited to mixed beds and prairie-style plantings.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Blanket Flower |
| Botanical name | Gaillardia × grandiflora |
| Plant type | Short-lived herbaceous perennial |
| Mature height | About 1–3 feet, depending on cultivar |
| Spread | About 1–2 feet |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-drained, average to poor soil |
| Water | Low to moderate |
| Bloom time | Early summer through fall |
| Flower colors | Red, yellow, orange, burgundy and bicolors |
| USDA Zones | Approximately 3–9 |
| Pollinators | Bees and butterflies |
| Propagation | Seed and division |
Growing Blanket Flowers – Easy Care Tips for Vibrant Blooms
Blanket flowers are easy to grow when given plenty of sunlight, good drainage, and relatively lean soil. The following guide covers the key steps for keeping these colorful perennials healthy and blooming throughout the growing season.
Understanding Blanket Flowers
Blanket flower (Gaillardia × grandiflora) is a garden hybrid produced from two North American species, Gaillardia aristata and Gaillardia pulchella. It combines the perennial growth habit and cold tolerance of G. aristata with the colorful flowers and long blooming period associated with G. pulchella.
The common name “blanket flower” is often associated with the flowers’ bold red, yellow, and orange patterns, which can resemble the colors and patterns of woven blankets. Several explanations for the precise origin of the name have been proposed, however, so it is best treated as a traditional common name rather than attributed to one specific source.
Botanical Characteristics
Blanket flowers form compact to moderately sized clumps of gray-green, slightly hairy foliage topped by daisy-like flower heads, typically in shades of red, yellow, orange, burgundy, and bicolors. Depending on the cultivar, plants generally grow about 1–3 feet tall.
- Flowers: Daisy-like flower heads, often approximately 2–3 inches across.
- Foliage: Gray-green to green, slightly hairy leaves.
- Growth habit: Upright to mounded, clump-forming perennial.
- Bloom period: Early summer through fall.
- Soil: Average to poor, well-drained soil.
Blanket flowers are particularly valued for their tolerance of heat, drought, and relatively poor soil.
Popular Cultivars
- ‘Arizona Sun’ – A compact cultivar with red flower centers surrounded by petals tipped in yellow.
- ‘Burgundy’ – Produces deep burgundy-red flowers and provides a darker alternative to the more common red-and-yellow forms.
- ‘Mesa Yellow’ – A compact cultivar producing bright yellow flowers over a long blooming period.
Other Notable Cultivars
- ‘SpinTop Red Halo’ – Produces red flowers with contrasting coloration around the center.
- ‘Celebration’ – Noted for its rich red flowers and compact growth habit.
How to Grow Blanket Flowers
Blanket flowers are relatively easy to grow when provided with full sun, well-drained soil, and enough space for good air circulation. Choosing the right planting site is particularly important because these drought-tolerant perennials do not perform well in persistently wet soil.
When to Plant
Blanket flowers can be planted in spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has begun to warm. Spring planting gives the roots time to become established before the heat of summer and is generally the best choice in colder climates.
In regions with mild winters, blanket flowers can also be planted in early fall, ideally several weeks before the first expected frost. This allows enough time for roots to establish before winter dormancy.
If growing blanket flowers from seed, start seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last expected spring frost or sow them directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Surface sow the seeds and press them lightly into the soil rather than covering them deeply, as light helps with germination.
Where to Plant
Plant blanket flowers in an open, sunny location with well-drained soil. Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day and does not remain wet after heavy rain, as prolonged moisture around the roots and crown can lead to rot.
Blanket flowers are particularly well suited to hot, dry areas where many flowering perennials struggle. They work well in borders, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, prairie-style plantings, rock gardens, and xeriscapes. Avoid low-lying areas with poor drainage and sites shaded by taller plants.
Space plants about 12–18 inches apart, depending on the mature size of the cultivar, to provide adequate air circulation and room for growth.
Soil
Blanket flowers grow best in average to poor, well-drained soil and generally do not require rich or heavily amended growing conditions. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is suitable, although good drainage is more important than achieving a precise soil pH.
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil, particularly in areas where moisture tends to accumulate during winter. If the existing soil drains poorly, consider growing blanket flowers in a raised bed or another elevated planting area where excess water can drain away more readily. Organic matter can be incorporated where appropriate to improve soil structure, but avoid creating an overly rich growing environment.
Excessively fertile soil, particularly soil high in nitrogen, can encourage lush, weak growth and reduce flowering.
How to Plant
Before planting, loosen the soil in the planting area and remove weeds or other competing vegetation. Dig a hole slightly wider than the plant’s root ball and deep enough for the plant to sit at the same level it was growing in its nursery container.
Remove the plant carefully from its container and gently loosen any tightly circling roots. Position it in the hole without burying the crown, then backfill with soil and firm it gently around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help the roots become established. Continue watering newly planted blanket flowers as needed during establishment, but avoid keeping the soil continuously wet.
A thin layer of mulch can help suppress weeds, but keep it several inches away from the crown. Avoid heavy or moisture-retentive mulch directly around the base of the plant, as consistently damp conditions can increase the risk of crown and root rot.
Care and Maintenance
Once established, blanket flowers require relatively little maintenance. Proper watering, minimal fertilizing, occasional deadheading, and good winter drainage will help keep the plants healthy and flowering throughout the growing season.
Watering Practices
Newly planted blanket flowers need regular watering while their roots become established. Once established, they are drought tolerant and generally need supplemental water only during extended dry periods. Water deeply when the soil has dried rather than keeping it continuously moist, and avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to crown and root rot.
Fertilizing Tips
Blanket flowers generally do not require regular fertilizing and often perform best in average to poor soil. Excess fertilizer, particularly products high in nitrogen, can encourage lush, weak growth at the expense of flowers and may cause plants to become floppy.
In most garden soils, additional fertilizer is unnecessary. If the soil is particularly poor, a light application of compost or a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient. Avoid heavy or frequent feeding during the growing season.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadhead spent blanket flower blooms regularly to encourage continued flowering and limit unwanted self-seeding. If you want to leave seed for birds or encourage self-seeding or naturalize in the garden, leave some of the spent flower heads in place toward the end of the growing season.
Remove damaged, diseased, or untidy growth as needed during the growing season. Once the plants become dormant, dead foliage can be removed, although some gardeners leave dried stems and seed heads standing temporarily for winter interest and wildlife.
Temperature, Hardiness and Winter Care
Blanket flower (Gaillardia × grandiflora) is generally hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, although hardiness can vary somewhat by cultivar. The plants tolerate summer heat particularly well and, once established, perform well in hot, dry conditions.
In colder climates, successful overwintering depends not only on temperature but also on good drainage. Blanket flowers are susceptible to crown and root rot when the soil remains cold and waterlogged, so avoid sites where water collects during winter. Reduce supplemental watering as the plants become dormant, and keep heavy mulch away from the crown.
In colder parts of their hardiness range, a light layer of winter mulch can provide additional protection after the ground freezes. Apply it around, rather than directly over, the crown, and remove excess mulch as temperatures warm in spring. Well-drained soil is one of the most important factors in helping blanket flowers survive winter and return the following season.
How to Propagate
Blanket flowers can be propagated by seed or division. Seed is useful for producing new plants, while division can rejuvenate established clumps.
Growing from Seed
Blanket flowers are relatively easy to grow from seed. Seeds can be started indoors before the last frost or sown directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
To sow blanket flower seeds:
- Prepare a well-drained seed-starting mix or loosen the soil in the planting area.
- Scatter the seeds over the surface and press them lightly into the soil.
- Do not cover the seeds deeply, as the seeds benefit from light during germination
- Keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged while the seeds germinate.
- Expect germination in approximately 2–3 weeks under suitable conditions.
- Once outdoor seedlings are established, thin them as needed to provide adequate spacing and air circulation.
When starting seeds indoors, transplant the seedlings carefully after the danger of frost has passed and gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before planting.
Division
Blanket flowers are relatively short-lived perennials, but established clumps can sometimes be divided to produce additional plants and rejuvenate older growth. Division is generally best done in spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate.
To divide blanket flowers:
- Dig carefully around the plant and lift the entire clump from the soil.
- Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure each division has healthy roots and shoots.
- Discard any weak, damaged, or rotting portions.
- Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing.
- Water thoroughly after planting, then allow the soil to drain well.
Division may be useful every few years if an established plant becomes crowded or loses vigor, but it does not need to be performed on a strict schedule.
Common Problems
Blanket flowers are generally trouble-free when grown in full sun and well-drained soil, but occasional pests, diseases, and growing problems can occur. Recognizing the most common issues early can help keep plants healthy and flowering well.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Blanket flowers are generally trouble-free, but aphids, leafhoppers, and other sap-feeding insects may occasionally appear. Minor infestations often require no treatment; larger populations can sometimes be reduced with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Fungal problems are more likely when plants are crowded or grown in persistently wet conditions. Powdery mildew, leaf spots, and crown or root rot may occur. Provide good air circulation, avoid unnecessary overhead watering, and grow blanket flowers in freely draining soil to reduce disease problems.
Why Blanket Flowers Become Floppy
Blanket flowers may become floppy or develop weak, sprawling stems when they receive too little sunlight or grow in soil that is overly rich. Excess nitrogen encourages lush, soft growth that may not be strong enough to support the flowers, while insufficient sunlight can cause stems to stretch toward available light.
To encourage sturdier growth:
- Plant blanket flowers where they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers and excessive feeding.
- Grow them in average to poor, well-drained soil rather than heavily amended, highly fertile soil.
- Space plants adequately to improve air circulation and prevent crowding.
- Avoid overwatering, which can contribute to weak growth and increase the risk of crown and root problems.
If established plants become tall and untidy, lightly cutting them back can encourage more compact growth and additional flowering. Taller cultivars can also be supported discreetly if necessary.
Why Didn’t My Blanket Flower Come Back?
Blanket flowers are relatively short-lived perennials, and individual plants may persist for only a few years. Winter loss is also more likely in heavy or poorly drained soil because the crowns are susceptible to rot when they remain cold and wet. Planting in freely draining soil, avoiding excessive fertilizer, and keeping heavy mulch away from the crown can improve their chances of returning.
Designing Your Garden
Blanket flowers combine easily with other sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants and can be used in a variety of landscape settings. Choosing companions with similar growing requirements helps create attractive plantings that are also easy to maintain.
Companion Planting
Choose companion plants that share blanket flower’s preference for full sun and well-drained soil. Good options include:
- Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) – provide contrasting flower forms and additional pollinator value.
- Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia spp.) – complement the warm colors of blanket flowers and thrive under similar conditions.
- Coreopsis – provides an extended display of yellow flowers in sunny, well-drained sites.
- Sedum – tolerates dry conditions and adds contrasting foliage and late-season flowers.
- Ornamental grasses – provide height, movement, and textural contrast.
Landscape Uses
Blanket flowers are well suited to sunny landscapes where heat tolerance, drought tolerance, and a long flowering season are desirable. Their warm-colored blooms combine particularly well with other summer-flowering perennials and ornamental grasses.
Consider using blanket flowers in:
- Borders and flower beds – for long-lasting summer color along paths and garden edges.
- Cottage gardens – for informal combinations with other flowering perennials.
- Prairie-style plantings – alongside ornamental grasses and other sun-loving plants.
- Pollinator gardens – to provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Rock gardens – where sunny, freely draining conditions suit their growing requirements.
- Xeriscapes and drought-tolerant gardens – where their low water requirements are particularly useful.
- Containers – compact cultivars perform well in pots with excellent drainage.
Because blanket flowers grow primarily as clumps or mounds rather than forming a dense spreading mat, they are generally better used as flowering perennials than as traditional ground covers.
Final Thoughts on Blanket Flowers
Blanket flowers are a colorful, low-maintenance choice for sunny gardens, particularly in hot, dry locations with well-drained soil. Once established, they require relatively little supplemental water or fertilizer and can provide flowers from early summer into fall while attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Although Gaillardia × grandiflora can be relatively short-lived, good drainage, full sun, moderate watering, and avoiding excessive fertilizer can help plants remain healthy. Deadheading can extend the flowering display, while allowing some seed heads to mature can encourage self-seeding and provide seeds for birds.
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