Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Gaillardia
Species: G. pulchella
Binomial name
Gaillardia pulchella
If you live in Texas or the central part of the United States, you will be seeing the wide and dense swaths of these flowers right now. Firewheel, Indian Blanket, Gallardia…I am sure there are other names but they are so dominant on the horizon as I write, I felt a need to include them in their own post.
I love this flower because it is so hardy. I have found it growing out of rock and I know that if I had tried to plant a seed in that crevasse and watered it with love there is no way it would have grown for me.
It has the distinction of being the state flower of Oklahoma which is just north of us. Way to go, “Okies” I am assuming this is because of Oklahoma’s rich Native American heritage.
If you drive by some of these beauties…pick a couple. They will last a week in a vase. Or at least the rest of your road trip. I know, lots of folks don’t pick wildflowers. I have to admit though…I have. It is just wonderful to have a couple in the house with me. I shower them with love for their sacrifice.
When I Ride... 