Blanket flower
Gaillardia x grandiflorafam. Asteraceae
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Pl. 25B6 — Gaillardia x grandiflora
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IOverview
Overview
Blanket flower (Gaillardia x grandiflora) is a perennial in the Asteraceae family, known for its ornamental value and medicinal properties. Native to regions including Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Manitoba, Massachusetts, and Minnesota, this plant thrives in full sun with well-drained soil that can be either dry or moist. It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is adaptable to a range of pH levels from 5.5 to 7.9. The edible parts include the leaves, which are often used in culinary applications. Additionally, blanket flower has been utilized for its medicinal benefits, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. Its distinctive features include vibrant, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators and add color to any garden setting.
Quick answers
What is Blanket flower?
Blanket flower (Gaillardia x grandiflora) is a perennial in the Asteraceae family, known for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Compare with:Argyranthemum foeniculaceum→Artemisia sieversiana→Gnaphalium japonicum→all comparisons →
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Blanket flower support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Blanket flower thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.9. It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This perennial can be propagated through division or seed sowing. Hardy from zones 3 to 10, it grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is native to regions including Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Manitoba, Massachusetts, and Minnesota. The edible leaves are a useful addition to gardens in temperate climates.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–7.9
For first-time growers
How to grow Blanket flower for the first time
8steps
Start with planting blanket flower seeds in a sunny spot, and you'll have a low-maintenance perennial that adds color to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, compost, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.9, and ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden after danger of frost is past, or start seedlings indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist until plants are established. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and fertilize once a year in early spring with compost or a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Cut back by one-third after flowering ends for better appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues to avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The blanket flower's leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild, slightly bitter flavor. The leaves can also be steamed or added to soups and stews. Skip the raw application if you prefer a milder taste.
Other uses:ContainersCut flowersGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
19 native · 11 introduced
Distribution
19 native · 11 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 19 native· 11 introduced
Europe6 regions
introduced (6)BelarusBelgiumFranceHungaryItalyPortugal
Asia1 region
introduced (1)India
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Manitoba, Masachusettes, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Northwest Territorie, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Yukon
introduced:Baltic States, Brazil South, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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