How to Grow Blanket Flower Goblin
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Blanket Flower Goblin
Gaillardia x grandiflora 'Goblin'
flowerBlanket Flower 'Goblin' is a compact perennial cultivar known for its vibrant red and yellow bi-colored flowers that resemble a traditional blanket pattern. This dwarf variety grows 12-18 inches tall and produces prolific blooms throughout the summer and into fall. It is extremely hardy, drought-tolerant, and attracts pollinators while requiring minimal maintenance.
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Example Blanket Flower Goblin timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blanket Flower Goblin
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Blanket Flower Goblin blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; excellent cold hardiness combined with heat tolerance
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Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall plants with 2-4 true leaves; delicate appearance with linear foliage
Keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light and good air circulation. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy, mounding habit with fine, thread-like foliage; reaches 8-12 inches tall
Water moderately as root system establishes. Pinch back growing tips once or twice to encourage bushier growth and more flower buds. Remove weeds.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (June-September)Produces abundant single or semi-double flowers with red inner petals and yellow outer petals; 2-3 inch blooms appear above foliage
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Water during extreme heat or drought. Avoid excessive fertilizer, which promotes foliage over flowers.
Repeat Blooming
4-6 weeks (late August-October)Plant may rest briefly in mid-summer heat, then resume flowering as temperatures cool in late summer and early fall
Continue deadheading. Reduce watering slightly during cool-down period. Plant remains hardy and may flower until first frost.
Dormancy
4-5 months (November-March)Foliage dies back with frost; plant rests underground over winter
Allow dead foliage to remain for winter protection or cut back after hard frost. In spring, new growth emerges from root crown. No winter watering needed in most climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning, use pheromone traps, or apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove damaged foliage.
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge, increase humidity, apply insecticidal soap or miticide in severe cases. More common in hot, dry conditions.
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Control leafhoppers with reflective mulches or insecticides. Remove infected plants showing yellowing and distorted growth.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering. Remove affected plants and improve soil drainage with sand or perlite amendment.
Uses
Edible Garnish
CulinaryBlanket Flower petals are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. The petals have a slightly peppery, mild flavor and add visual appeal to culinary presentations. [source]
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe prolific summer-long blooms attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and supporting native insect populations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe vibrant red and yellow blooms are excellent for fresh or dried flower arrangements and bouquets, bringing cheerful color to indoor spaces for extended periods. [source]
Dried Flower Crafts
CraftGaillardia flowers dry well and retain their color, making them ideal for pressing, dried arrangements, wreaths, and other craft projects that preserve their ornamental beauty. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSome Gaillardia species have been used in traditional Native American medicine for various purposes, though modern scientific evidence is limited and medical consultation is advised. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Blanket Flower 'Goblin' is primarily grown for ornamental blooms, not harvest. Cut flowers for arrangements in early morning when blooms are fully open but fresh. Cut stems at an angle. Flowers last 7-10 days in a vase. For dried flowers, cut just before peak bloom and hang upside down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Blanket Flower' comes from the resemblance of the flower pattern to traditional Native American blanket designs, particularly the red and yellow bi-color arrangement.
- 🌱 'Goblin' is a dwarf cultivar specifically bred to be more compact than standard Gaillardia grandiflora varieties, making it ideal for borders, containers, and small garden spaces.
- 🌱 Blanket Flowers are native to North and South America and were used by indigenous peoples for various purposes; the genus name 'Gaillardia' honors French botanist Gaillard de Marentonneau.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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