Gaillardia in Aspen (91273).jpg. by Rhododendrites. CC BY-SA 4.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Indian Blanket Plant Care
Gaillardia pulchella Foug.
Gaillardia pulchella (firewheel, Indian blanket, Indian blanketflower, or sundance) is a North American species of short-lived perennial or annual flowering plants in the sunflower family.[3][4][5][6][7][8]
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–80°F
40–60%
What Is the Indian Blanket?
Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Gaillardia genus. Indian Blanket is also known as Firewheel, Indian blanketflower, Prairie fire.
Indian Blanket displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Indian Blanket produces colorful daisy-like flowers in red, yellow, and orange hues.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Indian Blanket?
Gaillardia pulchella requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Indian Blanket Need?
Indian Blanket thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–6000 lux. Avoid placing Indian Blanket in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–6000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Indian Blanket Prefer?
Gaillardia pulchella grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Indian Blanket prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Indian Blanket?
Well-draining, sandy soil with some organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Indian Blanket to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Indian Blanket?
Divide and replant every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Indian Blanket?
Indian Blanket can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Indian Blanket Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Indian Blanket?
Indian Blanket is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Indian Blanket Need?
Indian Blanket grows outdoors in USDA Zone 2a – 10b. In cooler regions, grow Indian Blanket as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 2a – 10b
Keep exploring plants
Indian Blanket is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Gaillardia genus — compare its care with other Gaillardia species on PlantoScan.
Indian Blanket tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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