Gaillardia aristata
Cockscomb
Common names: Gaillardie
Photo: Alvesgaspar · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
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Description
The cockscomb, botanically Gaillardia aristata, produces bright red‑yellow cluster flowers from June to September that resemble small cockscombs. Native to North America, it thrives best in full sun and warm conditions. As a perennial, it reliably attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant self‑seeds and often persists for many years, though individual plants may decline after two to three years. Its leaves and stems are finely hairy and can irritate sensitive skin; gloves are recommended during handling.
Care instructions
Plant in full sun on well‑drained, slightly sandy or low‑nutrient soil; avoid overly fertile or water‑logged earth. Regular deadheading of faded blooms extends flowering into late autumn. Water only during prolonged dry spells; otherwise the plant tolerates low moisture. In winter, a loose mulch layer protects roots, especially in the first few years after planting. Every few years, divide the clumps to maintain bloom vigor. Varieties such as ‘Burgunder’ and ‘Kobold’ are particularly suitable for division.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, sandy, lean
Feeding
Light feeder
Companion planting
Good neighbors
carrot family (Apiaceae)
Calendula and Tagetes next to carrots keep the carrot fly away with their scent.
For example Carrotcelery rootDillParsleyCarrot fennelCoriander and 19 more species in the catalogue
Source: classic companion planting (DACH-Gartenpraxis)
Rather not
nightshade family (Solanaceae)
Sunflowers release substances into the soil that inhibit potato tuber growth, and they also compete for water and nutrients.
For example PotatoTomatoSweet pepperCocktail tomatoEggplantCape gooseberry and 9 more species in the catalogue
Source: basic crop-rotation rule
Companion planting is partly traditional gardening lore. Where the reason is known, it is given.
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