Indian Blanket Wildflower 🦋

The Indian Blanket, Gaillardia pulchella, is also commonly known as the Firewheel. It is a hardy, annual wildflower that is native to the central United States and is found in abundance in Oklahoma. The flower was designated as the Oklahoma State Wildflower in 1986.

The Indian Blanket has a daisy-like appearance with vibrant red petals that are tipped with yellow, resembling the colors and pattern of Native American blankets, which is how it got its name. It blooms from May to July and sometimes even into the fall months. The plant typically grows to be about 12 to 24 inches tall, and its flowers are 2 to 4 inches in diameter.

Gaillardia pulchella is well-adapted to the Oklahoma climate and soils. It is drought-resistant and thrives in full sun, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping and naturalized settings. The bright colors of the Indian Blanket attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for both gardens and wildflower meadows.