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Burro's Tail

Sedum morganianum

This sculptural trailing succulent creates thick, rope-like stems densely packed with plump, blue-green leaves that resemble a donkey's tail. The stems can cascade up to 4 feet long, making it perfect for hanging baskets, and the leaves have a delicate powdery coating that gives them an ethereal, silvery appearance in bright light.

Harvest

N/Ad

Days to harvest

📅

Sun

SEE-dum mor-gan-ee-AY-num

☀️

Zones

10–11

USDA hardiness

🗺️

Height

1-4 feet

📏

Complete Growing Guide

Light: SEE-dum mor-gan-ee-AY-num. Soil: Clay, Sand, Shallow Rocky. Soil pH: Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Very Dry. Height: 1 ft. 0 in. - 4 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 1 ft. 0 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 12 inches-3 feet. Growth rate: Medium. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Division, Leaf Cutting, Stem Cutting.

Harvesting

Type: Capsule.

Bloom time: Summer

Edibility: Stems and leaves can be eaten, but when ingested in large quantities, can cause stomach upset.

Storage & Preservation

Since burro's tail is ornamental only, storage focuses on maintaining cuttings for propagation. Fresh cuttings should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area at room temperature (65-75°F) for the 3-5 day callusing period. Place them on a paper towel or clean cloth, avoiding plastic bags or closed containers that trap moisture.

Once callused, cuttings can be stored dry for up to 2-3 weeks before planting. Keep them in a shallow box or tray in indirect light. For longer storage, plant the callused cuttings in barely moist cactus mix and treat them as new plants.

If you need to store fallen leaves (though propagation success is low), allow them to callus for 1-2 days, then place them on dry cactus mix in bright, indirect light. Many leaves won't develop into new plants, but some may produce small plantlets after several months. Don't water until you see clear signs of root development.

History & Origin

Origin: Mexico (Veracruz, Puebla, Chiapas)

Advantages

+Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Poor Soil
+Attracts: Stems and leaves can be eaten, but when ingested in large quantities, can cause stomach upset.
+Edible: Stems and leaves can be eaten, but when ingested in large quantities, can cause stomach upset.
+Low maintenance

Companion Plants

Plant Together

Jade Plant

Similar water and light requirements, creates attractive succulent grouping

String of Pearls

Complementary trailing habit and identical care needs for hanging displays

Echeveria

Matching drought tolerance and bright light preferences

Haworthia

Similar watering schedule and both prefer well-draining soil

Sedum varieties

Compatible growth habits and shared preference for minimal water

String of Hearts

Both trailing succulents with similar light and water requirements

Aloe Vera

Complementary water needs and both thrive in bright, indirect light

Crassula varieties

Same family as Burro's Tail, ensuring compatible growing conditions

Keep Apart

African Violet

Requires consistently moist soil which can cause root rot in Burro's Tail

Fern

Needs high humidity and frequent watering, opposite of succulent requirements

Impatiens

High water needs and preference for moist soil conflicts with drought-loving succulent

Pests & Disease Resistance

Resistance

Good resistance when grown in proper conditions. Avoid handling frequently as leaves drop easily.

Common Pests

Mealybugs, scale insects, aphids

Diseases

Root rot from overwatering, leaf drop from overhandling

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does burro's tail take to grow full length?▼

Burro's tail is a slow-growing succulent that typically takes 3-4 years to reach its full cascading potential of 3-4 feet. You'll see about 6-12 inches of new growth per year under optimal conditions. Young plants focus energy on developing strong root systems before producing dramatic trailing stems, so patience is key for spectacular results.

Is burro's tail good for beginners?▼

Burro's tail is moderately beginner-friendly if you can master the watering schedule and resist handling it. The main challenges are learning to water infrequently (every 7-10 days in summer) and dealing with the fragile leaves that drop easily. Success comes down to finding the right bright location and using very well-draining soil.

Can you grow burro's tail in hanging baskets?▼

Hanging baskets are actually the ideal way to grow burro's tail, showcasing its natural trailing habit. Use baskets with multiple drainage holes and line with coconut fiber to prevent soil loss while allowing drainage. Position where the cascading stems won't be bumped, as the leaves detach very easily when touched.

Why do burro's tail leaves keep falling off?▼

Leaf drop in burro's tail is usually caused by overwatering, underwatering, or physical disturbance. The leaves naturally detach as a survival mechanism. Check your watering schedule (should dry completely between waterings), avoid touching the plant, and ensure it's in a stable location where it won't be bumped or moved frequently.

How do you propagate burro's tail successfully?▼

Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings with clean scissors, then let them dry and callus for 3-5 days in a shaded area. Once the cut end forms a dry layer, plant in well-draining cactus mix. Avoid leaf propagation as it has very low success rates. Stem cuttings root within 2-4 weeks with proper care.