Description

Suggested Uses

• Hanging baskets and macramé planters
• Bright-window houseplant (south or east exposure)
• Container accent with other drought-tolerant succulents
• Patio or balcony container (frost-free seasons)
• Dry garden arrangements and rock gardens in warm zones
• Gift plant and easy propagation from fallen leaves

Plant Details

• Botanical NameSucculent- Sedum Morg. Burros Tail (commonly sold as Sedum morganianum)
• Common NameSucculent- Sedum Morg.; also called Burro’s Tail, Donkey’s Tail
• Size & GrowthTrailing stems 24–48 in (60–120 cm) long over time; leaves ~0.3–0.6 in (8–15 mm). Compact when young; cascades with age.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 10–11 (frost tender). Grow as a houseplant or bring indoors where winters are cold; avoid temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen, succulent, glaucous blue‑green leaves; thick, overlapping, and easily detached if bumped or handled.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to summer on mature plants (rare indoors); small star-shaped pink to red flowers.
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; faster with abundant bright light and warm temperatures.
• Light RequirementsBright, indirect light to gentle direct sun. Aim for 4–6+ hours daily; acclimate before strong midday sun to prevent scorch.
• Attracts PollinatorsOccasionally attracts bees and hummingbirds when flowering outdoors.
• Indoor FriendlyExcellent houseplant near a bright window; thrives with strong light and good airflow.
• Container FriendlyIdeal for hanging baskets or shallow pots with excellent drainage; use gritty mix to prevent rot.
• Deer ResistantYes—generally unpalatable to deer and rabbits due to succulent foliage.
• Pet WarningGenerally considered non‑toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. Keep out of reach to avoid leaf drop ingestion and choking hazards.
• FragrantNot notably fragrant; flowers (when present) may be faintly sweet.
• Cut FlowerNot typically used as a cut flower; delicate stems shed leaves readily.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Echeveria, Graptopetalum, Crassula, Sedum rubrotinctum, Haworthia, Curio rowleyanus (String-of-Pearls), and small cacti with similar care.

Note: Attribute ranges are typical for Sedum morganianum; growth and bloom may vary by environment and cultivar.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsUse a hanging basket or pot with large drainage holes. Handle by the pot (not the stems). Set the plant slightly high in the container and top-dress with gravel to support trailing stems. Allow any fresh cuts to callus before planting.
• Soil MoistureWater thoroughly, then let 75–100% of the mix dry before watering again. Reduce frequency in winter. Never allow the pot to sit in water.
• Soil TypeFast-draining cactus/succulent mix with 50–70% mineral grit (pumice, perlite, coarse sand). Neutral to slightly acidic pH preferred.
• HumidityLow to average household humidity (30–50%) is ideal. Ensure airflow; avoid overly humid rooms to reduce risk of rot.
• Pruning InstructionsTrim leggy or damaged stems in spring–summer. Let cut ends callus 3–5 days, then replant for fullness. Remove spent flowers and fallen leaves (great for propagation).
• Winter CareProtect from frost; ideal 55–70°F (13–21°C). Keep near the brightest window, water sparingly, and do not fertilize during low-light months.
• Planting DepthSet stems shallowly—bury only the first node or two to anchor. Keep the crown slightly above the soil line; avoid burying leaves.
• FertilizationLight feeder. During spring–summer, apply a balanced, low‑nitrogen cactus fertilizer at 1/4 strength every 6–8 weeks. No feeding in winter.
• Special CareLeaves are fragile—avoid touching or brushing past. Increase sun exposure gradually to prevent scorch. Rotate the pot monthly for even growth. Watch for mealybugs; treat promptly and improve airflow.

Quick Light & Watering Cues

Light Meter

Bright spot, 1–2 hours gentle AM sun or strong filtered light all day. Pale leaves and slow growth = too little light.

Watering Rhythm

Typically every 2–3 weeks in warm, bright conditions; every 4–5+ weeks in winter. Always check soil dryness first.

Tip: Err on the dry side. Overwatering is the most common cause of decline in Burro’s Tail.