Donkey's Tail  (Sedum morganianum | Burro's Tail | Lamb's Tail )

Description

Donkey’s tail botanically Sedum morganianum is a trailing succulent which originates from dry hillsides of southern Mexico and Honduras. The plant earned its common name due to its long, ropey stems filled with numerous small leaves that closely packed and overlapped in the same manner as fish scales, thus forming thick, braided rope in time and hanging downward. Each leaf of the plant is covered with a soft and dusty coat, giving the plant a nice pale blue-green colour, or a frosted appearance; the dust can be easily scraped away with use, thus, plants look distinct, relying on past treatment.

Donkey's Tail is a favorite because they offer something to the eye that's not necessarily an upright rosette. They are able to retain water in their chubby leaves and don't demand the gardener's constant vigilance and watering regime once they are established. They grow perfectly fine on a balcony or windowsill in good light or by a window receiving a few hours of light, gentle morning sun is preferable, and a bit of protection from intense Indian sun at midday is advisable in high summer when leaves can burn. Otherwise Donkey's Tail generally maintains its colour and form during the cooler months.

A good bet for someone learning the ropes on succulent care, this plant will maintain a fairly straightforward care profile once it finds the sweet spot of light and drainage. A hanging planter outside on a balcony, a high shelf on which the tails can hang, or placing it on a plant stand at eye-level would work well.

Key Features

• Thick, ropey stems covered in rounded plump leaves, creating a signature braided effect. 
• Soft blue-green foliage dusted with a delicate powder coating to create a frosty finish.
• The leaf tissues store water; thus, it’s tolerant to some dry periods in between watering periods.
• Simple, low-maintenance care once placed in a bright enough spot
• Naturally trailing growth that suits hanging baskets, shelves, and plant stands
• Slow, steady growth that keeps its overall shape for years with little pruning needed
• Propagates easily from stem or leaf cuttings, making it simple to grow more plants
• Cool little gift for the succulent owner that already has everything

Care at a Glance

Product Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 x Live Donkey's Tail (Sedum morganianum) plant
• 1 x 3-inch plastic nursery pot (Bare-rooted / Pot: Optional)
• Well-draining potting mix
• Basic care instructions

Important Notes

• Being a natural product, each plant shows some variation in stem length, leaf density, and colour
• Leaves detach very easily when touched or moved; handle the plant gently, especially while unboxing
• Some leaf drop during transit is normal and generally not a cause for concern; the plant usually settles within a couple of weeks
• Introduce the plant to direct sun gradually rather than placing it in harsh sunlight right after transit
• Avoid overwatering, as this plant is far more sensitive to soggy soil than to being kept slightly dry
• Keep the plant away from small children and pets who may be tempted to chew on the leaves, as a general precaution with any houseplant

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's up with all the leaves on my Donkey's Tail falling off?

A:This is completely natural! The leaves are loosely attached to the stem of the Donkey's Tail and will pop off with even the slightest nudge. Try to position the plant where you'll know that it won't be brushed past frequently.

Q: How often do I water the plant?

A: Let the soil dry completely out in between waterings - typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and even less often in winter. I check the soil by sticking my finger into it to feel dryness - the specific interval will be dependent upon your climate.

Q: Can the Donkey's Tail plant be grown inside? 

A: Yes, as long as it's in a truly bright position – typically a west or south facing window. Inadequate light causes the stems to grow elongated with gaps between each leaf, thus ruining the tight, braided appearance.

Q: Is Donkey's Tail poisonous to animals?

A: Most resources consider Sedum morganianum as not poisonous to humans and the furry pets cats and dogs. However, some animals may still suffer from slight gastric trouble from overeating Donkey's tail. Nonetheless, it’s still best to keep plants out of your curious pets’ and toddler’s reach.

Q: My plant appears mushy or discolored near its base. Why is it doing this? 

A: This is a clear symptom of the plant’s base rotting because of being overwatered or a lack of drainage. Wait for the soil to fully dry, remove any soft, discolored portions and do not water it again until you spot some new growth.

Q: How do I propagate a donkey's tail plant? 

A: Remove a healthy stem or even a single leaf, let the cut end dry out for a day or two, and place the leaf on the surface of well-drained soil. Gently water from the bottom of the pot only when the soil looks dry; roots usually form in 2–4 weeks.