About Burro's Tail
Burro's Tail Introduction
Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum) is a captivating succulent native to southern Mexico and Honduras. This striking plant is renowned for its long, trailing stems adorned with plump, overlapping leaves that resemble the tail of a burro (donkey), hence its common name. The stems can grow up to 2-4 feet long, creating a cascading effect that makes it perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant in rock gardens.
The leaves of Burro’s Tail are small, rounded, and fleshy, typically measuring about 1 inch long. They are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem, giving the plant a unique, braided appearance. The color of the leaves can vary from blue-green to gray-green, sometimes with a slight purple tinge, especially when exposed to bright light. This coloration adds to the plant’s ornamental value and makes it a standout in any succulent collection.
While Burro’s Tail is primarily grown for its foliage, it can produce small, star-shaped flowers in pink or red hues during the summer months. However, flowering is rare in cultivation, especially when grown indoors. The plant’s slow-growing nature and drought-tolerant characteristics make it a low-maintenance choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its unique appearance and easy care requirements have made Burro’s Tail a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens alike, particularly in regions with Mediterranean climates.
Burro's Tail Care & Growing Guide
Caring for Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum) is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. This succulent thrives on neglect and requires minimal attention to flourish. The key to success with Burro’s Tail lies in providing it with the right balance of light, water, and well-draining soil.
Light is crucial for the health and appearance of Burro’s Tail. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning or late afternoon. When grown indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light throughout the day. If the plant starts to stretch or lose its compact form, it may be an indication that it’s not receiving enough light. Conversely, if the leaves develop brown spots or appear bleached, it might be getting too much direct sunlight.
Watering is another critical aspect of Burro’s Tail care. As with most succulents, this plant is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is one of the most common issues with Burro’s Tail, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal problems. A good rule of thumb is to water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and less frequently in winter. Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. When watering, avoid getting the leaves wet as this can cause them to rot or fall off easily.
Soil
Burro’s Tail thrives in well-draining soil that mimics its native rocky habitat. A commercial cactus and succulent mix or a blend of regular potting soil with added perlite or coarse sand works well. The ideal pH range is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, so ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
The soil composition significantly affects the plant’s health and growth. A well-draining mix prevents water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to root rot. The ideal soil should retain some moisture but allow excess water to drain quickly. Adding organic matter like compost can improve nutrient content, but be cautious not to make the soil too rich, as Burro’s Tail prefers lean conditions.
Soil problems to watch for include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal issues.
2. Compaction: Prevents proper root growth and water absorption.
3. Inappropriate pH: Can affect nutrient uptake.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur from hard water or over-fertilization.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: May result in yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
6. Root boundness: Can occur if the plant outgrows its pot, restricting growth and nutrient uptake.
To address these issues, regularly check the soil condition, repot when necessary, and adjust watering and fertilizing practices as needed.
Fertilizer
Burro’s Tail has relatively low fertilizer needs. Over-fertilization can lead to soft, leggy growth and diminish the plant’s compact, attractive form. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize sparingly using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
Fertilization schedule:
– Apply fertilizer once a month during spring and summer
– Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows
Signs of over-fertilization:
– Rapid, leggy growth
– Leaves turning dark green or developing brown tips
– Salt build-up on soil surface
Signs of under-fertilization:
– Slow growth
– Yellowing leaves (if severe)
– Smaller new leaves
Organic fertilizer alternatives:
– Diluted compost tea
– Worm castings (sprinkled on soil surface)
– Slow-release organic succulent fertilizer
Specific nutrient requirements:
– Burro’s Tail doesn’t have high nutrient demands
– A balanced NPK ratio (e.g., 10-10-10) is suitable
– Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote excessive, weak growth
If using tap water high in minerals, reduce fertilization frequency to prevent salt build-up in the soil. Always water thoroughly before fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Watering
Burro’s Tail has low to moderate watering needs, typical of succulents. It’s drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season (spring and summer), water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, usually every 2-3 weeks. In winter, reduce watering frequency to once a month or less.
Water quality preferences:
– Rainwater or distilled water is ideal
– If using tap water, allow it to sit out overnight to let chlorine evaporate
– Avoid water high in minerals (hard water) as it can lead to salt build-up in the soil
Signs of underwatering:
– Leaves becoming wrinkled or shriveled
– Leaves feeling soft and pliable
– Slower growth
Signs of overwatering:
– Leaves turning yellow or translucent
– Leaves feeling mushy or falling off easily
– Stem rot at the base of the plant
Watering needs change seasonally:
– Increase frequency in spring and summer during active growth
– Reduce in fall and winter when the plant is semi-dormant
– Adjust based on environmental factors like humidity and temperature
Always water at the soil level to avoid getting water on the leaves, which can cause them to rot or fall off easily.
Lighting
Burro’s Tail thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but should be protected from harsh midday sun. When grown indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light throughout the day.
Signs of insufficient light include:
– Elongated, stretched-out growth (etiolation)
– Fading of the blue-green color to a paler green
– Slower growth rate
– Leaves falling off more easily
Signs of excessive light exposure include:
– Sunburned or bleached leaves (white or brown patches)
– Dried out or crispy leaf tips
– Overall stressed appearance
If natural light conditions are suboptimal, consider the following adjustments:
1. Use sheer curtains to filter intense direct sunlight
2. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure
3. Supplement with grow lights if indoor light is insufficient
4. Move the plant closer to or further from windows as needed
5. Use reflective surfaces to increase light in darker areas
Temperature
Burro’s Tail thrives in warm temperatures typical of its native habitat. The ideal temperature range for this succulent is between 60Β°F to 80Β°F (15Β°C to 27Β°C). It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat or cold.
Temperature tolerance:
– Can withstand brief periods of temperatures as low as 40Β°F (4Β°C)
– Prefers to be kept above 50Β°F (10Β°C) for optimal growth
– Can tolerate temperatures up to 90Β°F (32Β°C) if well-hydrated
Tips for temperature management:
1. Protect from cold drafts near windows in winter
2. Keep away from heating vents or air conditioning units
3. If outdoors, bring inside when temperatures drop below 50Β°F (10Β°C)
4. Provide shade or move to a cooler spot during extreme heat waves
5. Maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations
Burro’s Tail is somewhat sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Rapid changes can cause stress and lead to leaf drop. In colder climates, it’s best grown as an indoor plant or brought inside during winter months. If kept outdoors in warmer regions, ensure it’s protected from frost and intense afternoon sun in summer.
Humidity
Burro’s Tail is well-adapted to dry conditions and doesn’t require high humidity. It typically thrives in average room humidity levels of 40-50%. However, it can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, from very low to moderately high.
Symptoms of low humidity stress (rare in Burro’s Tail):
– Slightly wrinkled or puckered leaves
– Slower growth rate
Symptoms of high humidity stress:
– Increased risk of fungal diseases
– Leaves may become soft or mushy if combined with overwatering
While Burro’s Tail doesn’t typically need humidity adjustment, if you want to increase humidity for other nearby plants, you can use these methods:
1. Pebble trays: Effective but minimal impact on Burro’s Tail
2. Misting: Not recommended as it can lead to leaf rot
3. Humidifiers: Can be used but keep the plant out of direct mist
4. Grouping plants: Can slightly increase local humidity
In most cases, Burro’s Tail will do well without any special humidity considerations. Focus more on proper watering and light conditions for optimal growth.
Propagation
Burro’s Tail is relatively easy to propagate, with leaf and stem cuttings being the most common methods. Here’s a detailed guide for propagation:
1. Leaf propagation:
a. Gently remove healthy leaves from the stem, ensuring a clean break.
b. Allow the leaves to callus over for 2-3 days in a dry, warm place.
c. Place the calloused end on well-draining succulent soil.
d. Mist lightly every few days to keep the soil slightly moist.
e. Roots and tiny plants will form at the base of the leaf in 2-4 weeks.
f. Once the new plant is about 1 inch tall, transplant to its own pot.
2. Stem cutting propagation:
a. Cut a 4-6 inch section of healthy stem using clean, sharp scissors.
b. Remove leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting.
c. Allow the cut end to callus over for 3-5 days.
d. Plant the calloused end in well-draining succulent soil.
e. Water sparingly, keeping the soil just slightly moist.
f. Roots should develop in 3-4 weeks.
Comparison of success rates:
– Leaf propagation: Moderate success rate (60-70%)
– Stem cutting propagation: High success rate (80-90%)
Best time for propagation:
– Spring and early summer, when the plant is actively growing
Establishment time:
– Leaf propagation: 2-3 months for a small, established plant
– Stem cutting propagation: 1-2 months for roots to establish
Tips for successful propagation:
– Use a well-draining propagation mix (50% succulent soil, 50% perlite)
– Maintain warm temperatures (70-80Β°F / 21-27Β°C)
– Provide bright, indirect light
– Avoid overwatering to prevent rot
– Be patient, as Burro’s Tail grows slowly
Potting
Burro’s Tail requires specific potting conditions for optimal growth:
Pot type:
– Use shallow, wide pots to accommodate the plant’s trailing nature
– Terra cotta or unglazed ceramic pots are ideal as they allow for better air circulation and moisture evaporation
Drainage:
– Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes
– Add a layer of gravel or pebbles at the bottom for improved drainage
Repotting frequency:
– Repot young plants annually
– Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when rootbound
Ideal soil composition:
– Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix
– Or create a custom mix: 2 parts potting soil, 1 part perlite, 1 part coarse sand
Signs that indicate repotting is needed:
– Roots growing out of drainage holes
– Plant becoming top-heavy or unstable
– Soil drying out very quickly after watering
– Slowed growth despite proper care
Repotting process:
1. Water the plant a day before repotting to reduce stress
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot
3. Shake off excess soil and inspect roots, trimming any dead or rotted portions
4. Place in new pot with fresh soil mix
5. Wait a week before watering to allow any root injuries to heal
Root pruning:
– Generally not necessary for Burro’s Tail
– If needed, trim no more than 1/3 of the root mass
Transitioning to a new pot:
– Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter
– Gradually increase pot size to prevent overwatering issues
– After repotting, place in a shaded area for a week to reduce transplant shock
Pruning
Pruning Burro’s Tail
Pruning Burro’s Tail is generally minimal but can help maintain its shape and promote fuller growth. Here’s a detailed guide:
Best time for pruning:
- Spring or early summer, at the beginning of the growing season
Frequency:
- As needed, typically once a year or when the plant becomes leggy
Purpose:
- Remove dead or damaged stems
- Control size and shape
- Promote bushier growth
Tools needed:
- Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Step-by-step pruning guide:
- Sanitize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread.
- Identify stems that are dead, damaged, or excessively long.
- Cut the stem at the desired length, making a clean cut just above a leaf node.
- Remove any fallen leaves from the soil surface.
- Allow cut ends to callus for a few days before watering.
Aftercare:
- Reduce watering slightly for a week after pruning
- Monitor the plant for any signs of stress
Special considerations:
- Be gentle when handling the plant, as leaves can easily fall off
- Save healthy cuttings for propagation
- Avoid pruning more than 1/3 of the plant at once
Remember, Burro’s Tail is a slow-growing plant, so extensive pruning is rarely necessary. Focus on maintaining its health and shape with minimal intervention.
Blooming
Burro’s Tail typically blooms in summer, although flowering is rare in cultivation, especially indoors. When it does bloom, the flowers are small, star-shaped, and pink or red in color. The blooming period is usually short, lasting a few weeks. Optimal conditions for blooming include bright light, proper watering, and a period of cooler temperatures in winter.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
0: Mealybugs
1: Aphids
2: Spider mites
Symptoms
0: Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaf joints
1: Aphids: Small, green or black insects clustered on new growth
2: Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves, stippling on leaf surfaces
Treatment
0: Isolate affected plants to prevent spread
1: Remove pests manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol
2: Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
3: For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides
Diseases
Common issues
0: Root rot
1: Leaf spot
2: Powdery mildew
Symptoms
0: Root rot: Soft, mushy stems at the base, yellowing leaves
1: Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves
2: Powdery mildew: White, powdery coating on leaves
Treatment
0: Root rot: Remove affected parts, repot in fresh, dry soil, reduce watering
1: Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering
2: Powdery mildew: Increase air circulation, apply fungicide if severe
Special Features
Burro’s Tail is prized for its unique, trailing growth habit that resembles a donkey’s tail. Its long stems covered in plump, overlapping leaves create a striking cascading effect, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant in rock gardens. The blue-green to gray-green color of the leaves adds a soft, soothing element to any plant collection.
Plant Benefits
While Burro’s Tail is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, it does offer some benefits. Like many succulents, it can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Its presence can also have a calming effect, potentially reducing stress and improving mood. However, it’s not known for significant herbal or pharmaceutical benefits.
Additional Information
Burro’s Tail is a popular choice for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscaping in suitable climates. Its water-storing capabilities make it an excellent plant for conserving water in garden designs. The plant is also known for its fragility; leaves can easily detach from the stems when touched, which can be both a drawback and an advantage for propagation.
Life Cycle
Burro’s Tail is a perennial succulent that can live for many years with proper care. It has a slow to moderate growth rate, typically adding a few inches of length to its stems each year. The plant doesn’t have a distinct dormancy period but growth slows significantly in winter. It rarely flowers in cultivation, focusing its energy on vegetative growth. Propagation through leaves or stem cuttings allows for easy reproduction and continuation of the plant’s life cycle.
Are Burro's Tail Poisonous, Toxic
Burro’s Tail is generally considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some cases. While the plant is not severely toxic, it’s still best to keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent any potential discomfort. If ingested, symptoms may include mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually self-limiting and resolve on their own. As a preventive measure, place the plant in a location where pets and children cannot easily access it.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How often should I water my Burro’s Tail?
- Water your Burro’s Tail thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and less frequently in winter.
-
What kind of light does Burro’s Tail need?
- Burro’s Tail thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
-
How do I propagate Burro’s Tail?
- Burro’s Tail can be propagated easily from leaf or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
-
Is Burro’s Tail toxic to pets?
- Burro’s Tail is generally considered non-toxic to pets, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some cases.
-
Why are the leaves falling off my Burro’s Tail?
- Leaves falling off easily is normal for Burro’s Tail. However, excessive leaf drop can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or physical disturbance.
-
How often should I repot my Burro’s Tail?
- Repot young Burro’s Tail plants annually, and mature plants every 2-3 years or when they become rootbound.
-
Does Burro’s Tail flower?
- Burro’s Tail can produce small, star-shaped pink or red flowers in summer, but flowering is rare in cultivation, especially indoors.
-
What type of soil is best for Burro’s Tail?
- Burro’s Tail thrives in well-draining soil. Use a commercial cactus and succulent mix or create your own by mixing regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand.
-
How do I prevent my Burro’s Tail from getting leggy?
- Provide bright light and avoid overwatering or over-fertilizing. If it becomes leggy, prune back long stems to encourage bushier growth.
-
Can Burro’s Tail be grown outdoors?
- Burro’s Tail can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In colder climates, it should be grown as an indoor plant or brought inside during winter.
Can I grow Burro's Tail indoors
Difficulty
Easy
Size
Medium
Light
High
Water
Low
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
Yes
Air Purifier
Low
Sedum morganianum botanical details
Common Name
Burro’s Tail
Other Common Names
Donkey’s Tail, Horse’s Tail, Lamb’s Tail
Botanical Name
Sedum morganianum
Native Area
Southern Mexico and Honduras
Family Name
Crassulaceae
Plant Type
Perennial succulent
Genus
Sedum
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Burro’s Tail get kicked out of the garden party? It kept dropping its leaves on the dance floor!