Blanket Flower

Description:

Gaillardia aristata is a perennial herb reaching maximum heights of anywhere between 20–70 centimetres (7.9–27.6 in). It has lance-shaped leaves near the base and several erect, naked stems holding the flowers. Each flower head has a center of brownish or reddish purple disc florets and a fringe of ray florets which are about one to three centimeters long and yellow to reddish with dark bases. The fruit is a stout, hairy achene which may be over a centimeter long including the long, spiky pappus.

Notes:

This species was used for a variety of purposes by Native Americans, ranging from waterproofing rawhide bags to treating mumps, tuberculosis and cancer.