Compact perennial with fiery orange-red blooms, tipped by a ring of yellow. Blooms early summer and into fall. Bright colors attract butterflies.
History: Purchased at Oakland Nursery. Planted three of these July 2, 2014, in bed cleared of old ivy plants. They didn’t seem to survive the winter of 2015 and didn’t appear again in 2015.
Care: “Deadhead plants regularly to encourage more flowering. Blanket flowers are often relatively short-lived. Cutting back clumps to 6 inches in late summer often increases their chances of winter survival. You can also keep your plants vigorous by dividing them every 2-3 years in spring or early fall. Water newly set out or divided plants regularly until they become established. Blanket flowers have few insect or disease problems. Watch for aphids and leafhoppers that can spread a virus-like disease called aster yellows. Control insects with insecticidal soap, if needed, and destroy any plants that are stunted with flowers that remain green, as these are infected with aster yellows.” — National Gardening Association
Notes: From the packaging — Full sun, 6-9 inches tall, 6-12 inches wide
Resources:
National Gardening Association: http://www.garden.org/plantguide/?q=show&id=3347