Burro's Tail

Burro's Tail Sedum (Sedum morganianum)

Burro's Tail Sedum is a trailing succulent that turns a simple pot into a full, cascading display with very little effort. Its bead-like leaves stack tightly along draping stems, creating a lush texture that instantly makes shelves and hanging planters look styled. Once established, it prefers a dry rhythm between waterings, which makes it a forgiving choice for busy routines. Give it bright light and fast drainage, and it will reward you with longer, fuller trails over time.

Distinctive Features

This plant is known for long, pendant stems densely covered in plump, blue-green leaves that overlap like a braid. The stems can grow quite long with age, forming a dramatic curtain effect in hanging baskets, but they are also fragile and can drop leaves if handled roughly. In good conditions it may produce small, star-shaped flowers in pink to red tones, most often in late spring through summer, though flowering indoors can be sporadic. Overall, it is valued for its clean, sculptural texture and its ability to fill space with a soft, cascading form.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Bright light is best, including gentle direct sun after gradual acclimation.
• Soil: Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix in a pot with drainage.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out well before watering again, watering less in winter.
• USDA Zones: 10 to 11 outdoors, and grown as a houseplant anywhere.
• Mature Size: Trailing stems commonly reach about 2 to 4 feet long in containers over time.
• Habit: Trailing, cascading succulent with draping stems.

Ideal Uses

• Hanging Baskets: Let stems spill freely for a full cascade that looks finished from day one.
• Shelves and Plant Stands: Place it high so the trailing texture adds movement and softens hard lines.
• Bright Windows: Grow near strong light to encourage tighter leaf spacing and sturdier stems.
• Patio Containers: Use outdoors in warm months to boost growth, then bring indoors before cold weather.
• Focal Point: Feature a single pot in a simple hanging planter where the trailing ropes become the main visual statement.
• Succulent Pairings: Combine with upright succulents in separate pots to balance vertical structure with trailing texture.

Low Maintenance Care

• Handling: Move gently and avoid brushing the stems, since leaves can drop easily.
• Light Adjustment: Increase light gradually if growth stretches, and avoid sudden intense sun that can scorch leaves.
• Drainage: Keep roots out of soggy soil, since prolonged wetness can cause rot.
• Pruning: Trim long stems to shape the plant, and use cuttings to start new pots.
• Propagation: Root fallen leaves or stem cuttings after the ends dry and callus, then plant in a gritty mix.

Why Choose Burro's Tail Sedum?

• Cascading Texture: Dense, braided-looking stems create instant visual impact in small spaces.
• Low Water Needs: A dry-between-waterings routine keeps care simple and consistent.
• Space Efficient: Trails downward to add volume and style without taking up tabletop space.
• Easy to Multiply: Cuttings and dropped leaves can root, making it simple to build a fuller display.
• Collector Appeal: The unique leaf patterning stands out from typical rosette succulents.
• Indoor Friendly: Performs well in containers where you can control drainage and light.

If you want a trailing succulent that looks polished and stays manageable with a simple routine, Burro's Tail Sedum is an excellent choice. Give it bright light, fast drainage, and time to dry between waterings, and it will develop into a long, textured cascade that elevates any space.