Indian Blanket, Gaillardia pulchella, sometimes called firewheel is an unmistakable member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae). Its reddish brown disk flowers are surrounded by the striking ray flower petals of deep red, tipped with yellow. No other wildflowers in Texas look like these.
Occasionally, you will see differences in depth, or vibrancy of color, and distribution of color due to growing conditions or inherited variations.
This example of an atypical Indian Blanket has mainly red petals and only a few, vaguely yellow-tipped petals.
This example of Indian Blanket has yellow tips on its petals that are almost half the length of the petals.
Indian Blankets can be found in sandy or clay soils in grasslands or open woodlands throughout most of Texas. Their colorful blooms grace the countryside from February through December.
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