How to Grow Gaillardia Burgundy
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Gaillardia Burgundy
Gaillardia × grandiflora 'Burgundy'
flowerGaillardia Burgundy is a striking perennial flower featuring deep wine-red blooms with golden-yellow tips and centers, creating a dramatic two-tone effect. This cultivar is prized for its long blooming period from early summer through fall and exceptional drought tolerance once established. It's a low-maintenance, heat-loving plant that attracts pollinators and thrives in poor to average soil conditions.
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Example Gaillardia Burgundy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Gaillardia Burgundy
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 Gaillardia Burgundy 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; performs best in zones 5-8
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny plants with 2-4 true leaves; growth is slow initially
Keep soil lightly moist but never waterlogged. Provide bright light. Avoid transplanting stress.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops deeper root system and bushy foliage; leaves are deeply lobed
Gradually reduce watering frequency. Pinch back tips once plant is 6 inches tall to encourage bushiness. No fertilizer needed.
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips; compact flower head clusters begin to develop
Maintain consistent but infrequent watering. Ensure full sun exposure for best color development.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (June through September)Large daisy-like flowers with deep burgundy petals and golden-yellow centers and tips; blooms in succession
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Water sparingly. No staking typically needed if plant is bushy.
Seed Production & Dormancy
October through springFlowers fade to brown; seed heads develop for wildlife food or self-seeding
Leave seed heads on plant for birds or collect for seed saving. Cut back to 2-3 inches in late fall/early spring. Mulch lightly in cold zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity with occasional misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Usually not problematic in proper conditions.
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed. Remove affected foliage.
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Prevent by ensuring excellent drainage. Do not overwater. Remove affected plants if severely infected.
Uses
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinaryGaillardia petals are edible and add a slightly peppery flavor and striking color to salads, desserts, and cocktails. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe bright flowers attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season, supporting beneficial insect populations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftLong-lasting fresh-cut blooms are excellent for bouquets, and dried seed heads add visual interest to fall and winter arrangements. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
HouseholdGaillardia Burgundy requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping, borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife gardens. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically used by Native Americans in infusions; modern herbalists study potential anti-inflammatory properties, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers for fresh arrangements at any stage from bud to full bloom; flowers last 1-2 weeks in water. Harvest seed heads in fall by cutting stems when dried and brown; hang-dry indoors, then collect seeds by rubbing seed heads over paper. Leave some flowers unharvested for garden display and bird food.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Gaillardia is named after Gaillard de Marentonneau, an 18th-century French patron of botany, making it a tribute to botanical history.
- 🌱 The two-tone burgundy and gold coloring of this cultivar resembles the colors of native blankets, earning Gaillardia the common name 'Blanket Flower.'
- 🌱 Gaillardia seeds can remain viable in soil for several years, often self-seeding year after year to create naturalized plantings with minimal intervention.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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