Arizona Red Shades Blanket Flower
Arizona Red Shades Blanket Flower
Rich Solid-Red Daisies That Never Quit
Arizona Red Shades Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata 'Arizona Red Shades') trades the usual gold edging for deep, saturated red flowers that glow from early summer to frost on a compact, well-behaved plant. Like the rest of the group, it descends from the cold-hardy native prairie blanket flower and laughs at heat, drought, and poor soil while feeding pollinators all season. A bold front-of-border choice for sunny beds in Eagan, Shakopee, and Blaine.
Arizona Red Shades Plant Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Gaillardia aristata 'Arizona Red Shades' |
| Mature Size | 10–12 in. tall, 12–14 in. wide |
| Hardiness Zone | 3–9 (Twin Cities is zone 4b–5a — fully hardy) |
| Light | Full sun (6+ hours) |
| Bloom Time | Early summer until frost |
| Flower Color | Rich solid red |
| Soil | Prefers lean, well-drained soil; tolerates clay if not waterlogged |
| Winter Hardiness | Reliable to zone 3; best with sharp winter drainage |
| Deer Resistance | Rarely browsed by deer or rabbits |
Landscape Uses
Bold front-of-border color: The solid-red blooms make a strong statement massed in drifts of three to five. Deadhead to keep them coming.
Pollinator and hot-spot gardens: Thrives in reflected heat near driveways and walks while drawing bees and butterflies. Pair with yellow coneflower, catmint, and ornamental grasses.
Best Time to Plant in Minnesota
Plant in spring (late April–May) or early fall. It establishes fast; sharp drainage maximizes winter survival.
How to Plant Arizona Red Shades Blanket Flower
Dig a hole twice the pot's width at the same depth, amending heavy clay with compost or grit. Set the crown level, backfill, water in, and mulch lightly, keeping mulch off the crown. Space 12–14 inches apart.
Watering Arizona Red Shades Blanket Flower
First year: Water every 2–3 days at first, then weekly. Stop 2–3 weeks before the ground freezes.
After year one: Very drought-tolerant — water only during prolonged dry spells.
Q: Will it survive a Minnesota winter?
Yes — despite the 'Arizona' name, it's hardy to zone 3. Sharp drainage and dry winter soil improve its return.
Q: How do I keep it blooming?
Deadhead spent flowers — it blooms from early summer to frost.
Q: Is it deer-resistant?
Yes — deer and rabbits rarely touch it.
Q: Does it tolerate clay?
Yes, provided the soil drains and isn't soggy in winter.
You May Also Like
Coneflower (Echinacea): A native pollinator partner with the same sun-loving toughness.
Yarrow (Achillea): Flat-topped blooms for hot, dry borders.
Catmint (Nepeta): Cool blue spikes to set off the solid-red daisies.