PLANT OF THE WEEK Dazzler Gaillardia

Botanical name: Gaillardia pulchella "Dazzler."
Attributes: This long-blooming perennial from the American Plains and West is very heat- and drought-tolerant. This species was collected by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, although this particular cultivar is more compact and floriferous than those in the wild. The striking flowers are aptly named.
Bloom color: Red and yellow,
Bloom time: June through September,
Culture: Plant gaillardias in full sun into well-drained soil. Water new plants until they are established; no additional water is required after that. Deadhead flowers to extend bloom and to keep the plants looking tidy. Because this is a short-lived perennial, allow some seeds to form so the plant can self-sow.
Landscaping tips: Plant gaillardias in masses for brilliant color from late spring to fall. Hot, dry slopes and borders are ideal locations. Good companion plants include coneflowers of all types, daisies, day lilies, perennial salvias, Pitcher's sage, Russian sage, verbenas, yarrows and yuccas.
Cost: From about $4 for a 3-inch pot up to $8 for a gallon-sized plant.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)