Sedum Morganianum - Sedum burrito
Sedum morganianum ‘Burrito’, often called Burro’s Tail or Donkey’s Tail, is a wonderfully characterful trailing succulent. Its long stems are covered with plump, blue-green leaves that create an attractive cascading display. As plant shop owners, we recommend it for hanging pots and high shelves, where its delicate stems can trail without being disturbed.
Origin
Sedum morganianum originates from southern Mexico, where it grows in warm conditions on rocky cliffs and ledges. ‘Burrito’ is a compact form with shorter, rounder leaves and densely packed trailing stems.
Care Guide
- Light: Position in bright, indirect light with some gentle morning or evening sunshine. Too little light can produce weak, stretched growth, while intense midday sun may scorch the leaves.
- Water: Allow the compost to dry out completely before watering thoroughly. Reduce watering considerably during autumn and winter. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.
- Humidity: Normal or low household humidity is ideal. Avoid steamy rooms and provide good airflow around the plant.
- Temperature: Keep at room temperature and protect from frost. Avoid temperatures below 10°C where possible.
- Compost: Use a gritty, free-draining cactus or succulent compost. Extra perlite, pumice or horticultural grit can be added to improve drainage.
- Pot: Choose a pot with drainage holes. A terracotta pot can help excess moisture evaporate and reduce the risk of root rot.
- Feeding: Apply a diluted cactus or succulent fertiliser once every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Do not feed during winter.
- Handling: Handle as little as possible, as the leaves detach very easily. Place the plant in its permanent position soon after bringing it home.
- Pruning: Remove damaged or bare stems with clean scissors. Healthy cuttings can be used for propagation.
- Repotting: Repot only when necessary, preferably during spring. Support the trailing stems carefully and move the plant into a pot just one size larger.
- Propagation: Allow stem cuttings or fallen healthy leaves to dry for a day or two. Place them on well-draining succulent compost and water sparingly once roots begin to develop.
- Flowering: Mature plants may produce small pink or reddish flowers near the ends of their stems, although flowering indoors is uncommon.
- Common problems: Soft, yellow or translucent leaves usually indicate overwatering. Shrunken leaves can mean the plant is thirsty, while stretched growth suggests insufficient light. Mealybugs may occasionally hide between the tightly packed leaves.
Pet Safety
- Generally considered pet-safe: Sedum morganianum is regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
- Although it is not considered poisonous, eating a large amount of any plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort.
- The delicate leaves detach easily and could attract curious pets, so keep the plant out of reach where practical.
- Hanging stems may be tempting for cats to pull or play with, which can damage the plant or cause its pot to fall.
- If your pet eats a significant quantity or develops concerning symptoms, contact your veterinary practice for advice.
Our Tip
Choose its position carefully and leave it there—frequent handling will cause those beautiful, bead-like leaves to drop. Plenty of bright light, very free-draining compost and patient watering are the secrets to a full, healthy cascade.
Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.
Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.