New Orleans area gardeners have long grown gaillardias. I remember evaluating several cultivars at the New Orleans Botanical Garden back in the 1980s. Over the years, plant breeders have continued to develop new cultivars, and Mesa gaillardia is a relatively new series that is simply outstanding.
LSU AgCenter horticulturists have named Mesa series gaillardia a Louisiana Super Plants selection for fall 2014.
Common names for this flower include gaillardia, Indian blanket or blanket flower. The "blanket" in the name comes from the way native species can cover acres with low-growing plants that spread over the ground with colorful flowers. Gaillardias are often included in wildflower seed mixes.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: The Times-Picayune
