Blanketflower, Gaillardia sp.

Colorado Plant database lists two species: Gaillardia pinnatifida, and Gaillardia aristata. Both native. The leaves are noted to be different. Wildflower search also returns G. pulchella

G. pinnatifida leaves: simple (not divided into similar parts), pinnatifid (lobed into segments without stalks). Also called Cut-leaf blanketflower (SW co wildflowers shows photo with deeply lobed leaves). Haven’t found this one yet.

G. aristata leaves: simple.

photos below are from various locations. click photos for captions.

 

G. pulchella : Not listed in Eastern CO wildflowers or SW Co wildflowers. Lady bird Johnson site says: “Firewheel or indian blanket is a popular Annual (A species that grows from seed, flowers, fruits and dies within one year’s time. See also, Winter Annual. ) growing 1-2 ft. tall. The hairy stem is usually much-branched and becomes woody at the base late in the season. Branched stems, mostly leafy near the base, have showy flower heads with rays red at base, tipped with yellow, each with 3 teeth at broad end. The well-known flower heads are 1-2 in. across with a red center and a yellow outer band. Occasionally the three-cleft rays are solid orange or yellow. The disk flowers in the center are brownish red.”

photos below from coal creek trail 08312017