Sedum morganianum
Sedum morganianum (Burro's Tail) Care Guide
Featured photosedum-morganianum.jpgSedum morganianum is the burro's tail, a Mexican trailing succulent with thick, blue-green, tear-shaped leaves clustered along long pendant stems. The leaves drop very easily on disturbance, which is why mature specimens are best left in place. It is one of the most striking succulents for hanging pots when treated gently.
Care facts at a glance
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Water deeply when the mix is fully dry; typically every 2 to 3 weeks in summer.
- Humidity
- 30–50 %
- Temperature
- 15–27 °C
- Soil
- Free-draining cactus or succulent mix.
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic. (humans) · Non-toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA Sedum listings (most species). (pets)
- Origin
- Mexico.
- Mature size
- Pendant stems to 60 to 90 cm long.
Overview
Sedum morganianum was described in 1938 from Mexican material. The closely related Sedum burrito has slightly shorter, plumper leaves and is often confused with morganianum in trade.
Care Priorities
- Full sun or very bright filtered light.
- Water rarely; the thick leaves store ample reserves.
- Hang in a position where the trail will not be brushed against — leaves drop easily.
- Each fallen leaf can root and produce a new plant.
Common Problems
Mushy stems is overwatering. Stretched stems with sparse leaves is low light. Leaf drop on handling is normal — collect dropped leaves and propagate.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-28
- botanical-garden — accessed 2026-04-28
- toxicity-database — accessed 2026-04-28
Frequently asked questions
Why do leaves keep dropping?
Burro's tail leaves drop very easily on physical disturbance. Hang in a low-traffic spot and accept some loss; dropped leaves root and propagate readily.
Morganianum vs burrito?
Morganianum has longer, more pointed leaves; burrito has shorter, plumper, more rounded ones. Care is identical.
Best display?
A high hanging pot in full sun where the cascading stems can drop a metre or more without being touched.
