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Indian Blanket Flower
Scientific Name:
Gaillardia pulchella
Type:
Herbaceous Plant
Habitat:
Prairies and meadows
Range:
Native to most of the United States, excluding the Pacific Northwest, Utah, Wyoming, North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho; also grows into Mexico
Status:
No listed status
This species is
NATIVE
to the Truckee Meadows.
Identification:
The Indian blanket flower typically grows 1 to 2 feet in height and can be recognized by its hairy stem which typically becomes woody towards the end of the growth period. The flowers are about an inch or two across, their coloring is distinct, with red centers and a thin yellow outline at the 3 pointed tips of the petals. Its narrow leaves are about 3 inches long.
Fast Facts:
The Indian blanket flower has been used medicinally for breastfeeding mothers. It is made into tea and they bathe in it to soothe sore nipples. It is used on sore eyes in a similar way.
The root of the plant is also used for medicinal purposes. It can be chewed to end side effects such as diarrhea of the common stomach bug or applied topically for skin disorders.
People in the Kiowa Tribe consider this plant to be a sign of good luck!
The flowers of this plant are particularly attractive to butterflies.
This plant is highly drought and salt tolerant which is why it is sometimes referred to as “Beach-Blanket Flower.”
Sources:
Contributor(s):
Bridget Mulkerin (research & content)
Alex Shahbazi (edits & page design)
Last Updated:
June 17, 2021 at 7:18:50 PM
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