The Gaillardia, also known as Blanketflower, is one of the most colorful of the wildflowers in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s vibrant reds, oranges and yellows are just spectacular.
The Gaillardia grows in clumps to about 20″ tall with 3″ flowers from June to September. You can see them along the roads and in the grasslands of Estes Park and along the roads and trails in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The first photograph shows a Gaillardia in full bloom. The second photograph show one that has gone by and is ready to disperse its seeds. You can see how the flower looks like a ball of puff with the little seeds in the little compartments ready to fall out or get blown away.
Have you ever seen one?
What a beautiful little flower! A piece of the sun fallen to the ground. It’s such a happy flower. As an artist I often marvel at the beautiful canvas which surrounds us daily and is ever-changing.
Thank you for showing us this lovely flower. No, I have never seen one in RMNP. A welcome post on a cold & dreary day (in the Midwest). :>)
we have seen the flower on our summer trips, and we did see the “husk” on our April trip but had no idea it is the same plant. Thanks.
My online temp. for Estes says its 10 deg there now. Is that correct? If so, seemingly a big change from a few days ago when you were touring the fire scene.
Scott, it’s 5 degrees at our house right now. Yes, a lot different than a few days ago. Today is the first day you need a winter jacket! Some snow in the mountains last night but none in town.
Stunning photography, as always, Mel! Was particularly struck by the beauty of the one
going to seed as In its own subdued condition it is every bit as beautiful as the one in full bloom. At my time in life (83) I experience it as a superb model for aging.