Gallardia pulchella, or Indian blanket, is a common along Texas roadsides and adjacent grasslands – a staple of the spring wildflower bloom. But it thrives as well in the sandy soil of Texas beaches and dunes.
G. pulchella grows 1-2 feet tall and has a hairy stem that can become woody on mature plants. Although generally an annual, it is often a short-lived perennial along the Texas coast, where it blooms throughout the summer.
References
Hammond, H. E. & Norcini, J. G. & Wilson, S. B. & Schoellhorn, R. & Miller, D. (2007). Growth, flowering, and survival of firewheel ( Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) based on seed source and growing location. Native Plants Journal 8(1), 25-39.
