Burro's Tail
Sedum morganianum
A trailing succulent with plump, overlapping blue-green leaves packed along long stems that resemble braided tails. Easy to grow but its beads drop off at the slightest touch.
- Light
- Bright light with some direct sun
- Water
- Sparingly; let soil dry fully
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Burro's Tail is a trailing sedum famous for its long, pendulous stems densely covered in fleshy, teardrop-shaped leaves. The stems can reach 2-4 ft, spilling dramatically over the edge of a pot or hanging basket.
The leaves are coated in a powdery wax (farina) that gives them a soft blue-green to gray cast. The plant is forgiving and drought-tolerant, but the leaves detach very easily, so it prefers to be left undisturbed.
How to identify it
Recognize it by:
- Leaves: plump, pointed, teardrop or banana-shaped, blue-green to gray, with a powdery bloom
- Arrangement: densely overlapping and spiraling tightly around the stem like a braid
- Stems: long, trailing, ropy, often 2 ft or more on mature plants
- Flowers: small star-shaped pink to red blooms appear at stem tips in summer (uncommon indoors)
- Touch test: beads fall off readily when brushed, a hallmark trait
Care & growing
Light: Bright light with a few hours of direct sun deepens color and keeps growth compact.
Water: Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry completely; roughly every 2-3 weeks, less in winter. Overwatering causes rot.
Soil: Gritty, fast-draining cactus or succulent mix.
Temperature: 65-80F (18-27C); not frost-hardy.
Feeding: Light succulent feed once or twice in spring and summer.
Propagation: Extremely easy. Fallen or removed leaves and stem cuttings root readily when laid on dry soil.
Habitat & origin
Native to southern Mexico and Honduras, where it grows on rocky outcrops and cliffs, trailing down from crevices in warm, dry, well-lit conditions.
It is cultivated worldwide as a hanging houseplant and, in frost-free climates, as an outdoor trailer in rock gardens and containers.
Uses & benefits
Purely ornamental, prized for its striking cascading habit in hanging baskets and tall planters.
Because it is non-toxic and propagates so easily from dropped leaves, it is a popular, low-stakes plant for beginners and for sharing.
Frequently asked questions
Why do the leaves keep falling off my Burro's Tail?
The beads detach very easily with any handling, which is normal for this plant. Place it where it won't be bumped, and pot up fallen leaves to grow new plants.
How often should I water Burro's Tail?
Only when the soil is fully dry, usually every 2-3 weeks in summer and less in winter. It stores water in its leaves and is prone to rot if overwatered.
Why is my Burro's Tail stretching and pale?
Etiolation from too little light. Move it to a brighter spot with some direct sun to restore compact, colorful growth.
Is Burro's Tail safe around pets?
Yes, Sedum morganianum is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Burro's Tail guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Burro's Tail.
