Firewheel, Indian Blanket

Description:

Firewheel or indian blanket is an 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 flower heads are 2.5-5 cm. across with a red center and a yellow outer band. The disk flowers in the center are brownish red.

Habitat:

Frequent along roadsides in the Southwest; they tolerate heat and dryness.

Notes:

Grow on the shoulders of Fish Creek Road in Estes Park.