Gaillardia × grandiflora ‘Arizona Red Shades’

We’ve grown this on our Thurning ground for years; it’s a reliable performer. The large, dark red flowers are a real draw for bees and butterflies, providing a long season of colour from early summer into the autumn. Some flowers might show slight yellow tips on the petals, which is quite normal for this variety.

This is a compact and bushy perennial, reaching about 30cm in height. It forms a neat mound of bright green foliage. For the best results, give it a spot in full sun with well-drained soil; it isn’t keen on heavy clay or sitting in wet ground. It’s a tough plant that can handle drought once it’s established and does well even in poorer soils.

To keep the flowers coming, deadhead the spent blooms regularly. After the main flowering flush is over, you can cut the whole plant back. It’s a great choice for adding long-lasting colour to cottage gardens, wildlife areas, or pots on the patio.