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Burro's Tail Care

Burro's tail succulent in a hanging pot

Sedum morganianum (donkey's tail)

At a glance

β˜€οΈ Light Bright with some direct sun.
πŸ’§ Water When the soil is completely dry.
πŸͺ΄ Soil Gritty: our Arid Potting Mix.
🌑️ Temp 10–27Β°C.
πŸ’¨ Humidity Dry is fine.
🐾 Pets Pet safe Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
🌱 Care level Easy Pet safe Needs sun
πŸ“ Grows to Trails 30–90 cm.

Burro's tail grows long, braided-looking strands of plump blue-green leaves that hang over the side of the pot. It's pet safe and easy, with one quirk: the leaves fall off if you touch them. Find it a sunny spot where it won't be brushed against, and let it be.

On this page
  1. Light + placement
  2. Watering
  3. Soil + repotting
  4. Feeding + upkeep
  5. Common problems
  6. Varieties we carry
  7. FAQ
  8. Care kit

Light + placement

Bright light with a few hours of direct sun (morning or evening). In low light the strands thin out and leaves spread apart.

Victoria tip: Burro's tail can summer outdoors on a sunny Victoria balcony, sheltered from wind. Bring it in before the fall rains; soggy outdoor soil in October is its biggest risk.

Watering

Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. The plump leaves store a lot of water, so it needs much less than you'd think, especially in winter. Wrinkled leaves mean it's thirsty.

Soil + repotting

A gritty, fast-draining mix like our Arid Potting Mix in a pot with drainage. Repot rarely and carefully; every move costs leaves.

Let us do it: Bring it in and we'll repot it for $1 per inch of pot ($2–$10), plus soil and a new pot if you need one. How to Repot a Houseplant

Feeding + upkeep

Feed once or twice in spring and summer at half strength. Hang or place it where it won't be bumped. Fallen leaves can be propagated.

Propagation

Every fallen leaf is a potential new plant. Let leaves or stem cuttings dry for a few days, then lay them on dry gritty soil and mist lightly; tiny plants form within weeks. See Propagation 101.

Common problems

What you see Likely cause What to do
Leaves falling off Touched or moved Leave it in one place; propagate the fallen leaves.
Soft, mushy leaves or stems Overwatering Let it dry completely; check the base for rot.
Wrinkled, deflated leaves Thirsty Water deeply.
Thin strands, spaced-out leaves Not enough light Move to a sunnier spot.
Yellow, translucent leaves Too much water Water less often.

Varieties we carry

We carry burro's tail in hanging baskets and small pots. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.

None in stock online right now. New plants arrive every week, so check back soon or ask us in the shop.

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Frequently asked questions

Why does my burro's tail drop leaves?

The leaves are very loosely attached. Touching or moving it knocks them off.

Is burro's tail safe for pets?

Yes. It's non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How often should I water it?

Only when the soil is completely dry, roughly every 2–4 weeks.

Can I grow new plants from fallen leaves?

Yes. Lay them on dry gritty soil and they'll root.

Burro's Tail care kit

Still stuck? Bring it in.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11–5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β†’

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