Firewheel

Firewheel

© Winnie Burkett, Bolivar Peninsula

Gaillardia pulchella
Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family) 

Firewheel (Gaillardia pulchella), also known as Indian Blanket, is a showy, heat-tolerant wildflower native to Texas and much of the southern United States. This annual or short-lived perennial is a favorite in native gardens, roadsides, and wildflower meadows for its striking red and yellow daisy-like blooms. It is easy to grow, attracts pollinators, and thrives in hot, sunny locations.

• Scientific Name: Gaillardia pulchella
• Common Names: Firewheel, Indian Blanket
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
• Growth Habit: Low-growing, spreading annual or short-lived perennial
• Height: 12 to 24 inches
• Leaves: Lance-shaped, green, slightly hairy, alternate along the stem
• Flowers: Bright red with yellow tips; daisy-like with a central disc
• Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
• Wildlife Benefits: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seeds provide food for birds

Habitat & Range in Southeast Texas

© Winnie Burkett, Bolivar Peninsula

Firewheel naturally grows in:

• Prairies & Open Fields: Prefers full sun and open conditions
• Roadsides & Disturbed Areas: Commonly found along highways and in vacant lots
• Coastal & Sandy Soils: Tolerates poor, well-drained soils

This species is well-adapted to hot, dry conditions and poor soils.

Ecological Importance

• Pollinator Magnet: Provides nectar and pollen for a variety of insects
• Bird Support: Finches and other birds eat the seeds in late summer and fall
• Pioneer Species: Quickly colonizes disturbed or bare areas

Landscaping & Gardening Uses

Firewheel is a favorite for colorful, low-maintenance landscapes:

• Wildflower Meadows: Combines well with other natives for a naturalistic look
• Pollinator Gardens: Supports butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects
• Containers & Borders: Great for pots, sunny beds, and edging

Planting & Care

• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy or poor soils
• Water Needs: Low once established
• Maintenance: Deadhead to prolong bloom; reseeds readily
• Companion Plants: Pairs well with Lemon Mint (Monarda citriodora), Mexican Hat (Ratibida columnifera), and Prairie Verbena (Glandularia bipinnatifida)

Fun Facts

• The bold color pattern of Firewheel flowers resembles a spinning pinwheel or blanket pattern.
• It is one of the most widely recognized Texas wildflowers.
• Firewheel is the official state wildflower of Oklahoma.

Conservation & Native Plant Advocacy

Growing Firewheel supports native biodiversity and provides essential habitat for pollinators. Its ability to thrive in tough conditions makes it an excellent choice for sustainable and wildlife-friendly landscaping.

Where to Find It