Burrow Tail

Burro’s Tail, or Sedum morganianum, is a striking succulent native to southern Mexico. Known for its trailing, cascading stems covered in plump, blue-green leaves, this plant is often used in hanging baskets or as a decorative spiller in mixed succulent arrangements. It’s relatively easy to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions, but it can be sensitive to overwatering.

Light

Ideal Light: Burro’s Tail thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of bright light per day for optimal growth.
Direct Sunlight: While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, avoid placing it in harsh midday sun as this can cause the plant’s leaves to become scorched or discolored.
Low Light Tolerance: This plant can tolerate lower light, but it may not grow as vigorously and the trailing stems may become leggy. To keep it compact and bushy, provide as much light as possible.

Watering

Frequency: Burro’s Tail is a drought-tolerant succulent, so it doesn’t need frequent watering. Water it deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Typically, watering every 2-3 weeks is sufficient, but it depends on the climate and the size of the plant.
Watering Tips:
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, but never let the plant sit in water.
- Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or a sour smell coming from the soil can indicate overwatering or root rot.
Signs of Underwatering: The leaves will become shriveled and wrinkled if the plant is too dry. This is usually a sign that the plant is stressed and needs water.

Temperature

Ideal Temperature: Burro’s Tail thrives in warm temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C) during the growing season.
Night Temperature: It can tolerate cooler temperatures at night but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid: Protect your Burro’s Tail from sudden temperature fluctuations, as it can be sensitive to cold drafts or sudden cold snaps.

Humidity

Ideal Humidity: Burro’s Tail prefers low to moderate humidity. Like most succulents, it thrives in dry conditions and doesn’t need high humidity.
Avoid: Avoid placing the plant in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, as excess moisture can lead to rot or fungal issues.

Soil

Best Soil: Burro’s Tail prefers a well-draining, sandy soil mix. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal, or you can make your own by combining potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Repotting: Repot your Burro’s Tail every 1-2 years, or when it outgrows its pot. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one, and ensure it has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Fertilization

Frequency: Fertilize Burro’s Tail during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply fertilizer once a month.
Winter Care: In the fall and winter, Burro’s Tail goes dormant, so it doesn’t require fertilizing. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing during this period.
Fertilizer Tips: Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to become leggy and less compact. Always dilute the fertilizer to avoid burning the roots.

Pruning & Maintenance

Pruning: Burro’s Tail doesn’t require much pruning, but you can trim the trailing stems if they become too long or unruly. Prune with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Cleaning: Dust the leaves periodically with a soft brush or a damp cloth to keep them clean. Excess dust can hinder the plant’s ability to photosynthesize effectively.
Stem Breakage: The trailing stems of Burro’s Tail are fragile and can break easily. Be gentle when handling or moving the plant, especially if it’s in a hanging container.

Pests & Problems

Common Pests: Burro’s Tail is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, aphids, or scale insects.
- Treatment: Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water to treat infestations. Be sure to spray the undersides of the leaves and stems where pests tend to hide.
Signs of Overwatering: As a succulent, Burro’s Tail is very susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Be sure the soil dries out completely before watering again.
Signs of Underwatering: If the leaves become wrinkled or shriveled, it could be a sign that the plant is too dry. Water thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering.

Toxicity

Note: Burro’s Tail is non-toxic to both pets and humans, making it safe for homes with children and animals.

Additional Tips

Growth Habit: Burro’s Tail is a fast-growing, trailing succulent. It can grow up to 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) in length and is often grown in hanging baskets where its trailing stems can cascade down.
Propagation: Burro’s Tail is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. To propagate, simply cut a healthy stem and let it dry out for a day or two to form a callus. Once the cut end is calloused, plant it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots develop.
Air Purification: Like many succulents, Burro’s Tail helps to purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a great addition to your indoor space.

Displaying Your Burro’s Tail

Burro’s Tail is an eye-catching plant that looks best in hanging baskets or shelves where its trailing stems can cascade freely. It also works well as a spiller in succulent arrangements, complementing other upright succulents.
Make sure to place it in an area where it will receive bright, indirect light, and avoid places with excessive humidity or cold drafts.