Burro's Tail, Donkey's Tail
sedum morganianum
Also known as: ["Burro's Tail","Donkey's Tail"]
Overview
A trailing succulent with fleshy, blue-green leaves arranged in overlapping rows, native to Honduras and Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","pet-friendly"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sedum |
| Botanical Name: | Sedum morganianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor hanging basket in sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back up to one-third of the plant for shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in bright indirect light indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade from intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 2–3 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, let it callus for a day, plant in moist medium, keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; keep medium lightly moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove leggy or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune selectively, remove damaged growth, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use a mix with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C); move indoors in fall/winter; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting, especially with poor watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSedum morganianum is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSedum morganianum is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSedum morganianum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sedum morganianum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Can Sedum morganianum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors and is well-suited for hanging baskets.
Q: Is Sedum morganianum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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