Arizona Sun Gaillardia Plant

Vibrant color explosions throughout the season

If you’re looking to add a splash of color and charm to your garden, this perennial is an exceptional choice. Known for its stunning display of large, 3-inch diameter blooms, this compact plant features fiery orange-red petals surrounded by a ring of rich flame yellow, creating a vivid contrast that butterflies can’t resist. Awarded the prestigious 2005 All-American Selection and honored with the Fleuroselect Gold Medal, this perennial stands out not only for its beauty but also for its resilience. Blooming continuously from early summer into fall, it guarantees colorful arrangements and fresh blanket flower bouquets throughout the growing season.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this plant thrives with minimal care once established. It's heat tolerant and prefers to grow in poorer soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for regions with hot summers. Originally named for how it blanketed North American prairies, you can still find it flourishing in fields and along roadsides. By including this lovely plant in your landscape, you’ll not only enrich your garden’s appearance but also support local wildlife, particularly butterflies, with vibrant, nectar-rich blooms.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a spot with full sun and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball, place the plant and backfill with soil, ensuring the crown is level with the ground surface.

2. Watering: Once established, this plant requires minimal watering. Water deeply, but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between sessions. During extreme heat, provide supplemental watering as needed.

3. Pruning: To encourage bushier growth and more blooms, deadhead spent flowers throughout the season. In late fall or early spring, cut back the plant to about 4-6 inches to promote new growth.

4. Fertilizing: This perennial generally thrives without additional fertilization, but you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it prefers poorer soils.