How to Grow Donkey Tail
iNaturalist
Donkey Tail
Sedum morganianum
succulentDonkey Tail is a trailing succulent with long, rope-like stems covered in thick, fleshy blue-green leaves that resemble a donkey's tail. It produces small red or pink flowers in late spring and summer. This low-maintenance plant is ideal for hanging baskets and container gardens.
When should you plant Donkey Tail in your zone?
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Example Donkey Tail timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Donkey Tail
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Donkey Tail
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Donkey Tail dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grow indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Get my Donkey Tail timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation
4-6 weeksIndividual leaves or stem cuttings are used to create new plants; leaves develop tiny roots and small rosettes
Allow cuttings to callus over for 3-5 days before placing on dry soil; mist lightly every 7-10 days until rooted (4-6 weeks)
Establishment
2-3 monthsYoung rosettes form and begin to develop roots; plant establishes in pot or hanging basket
Keep soil barely moist until roots form; provide bright, indirect light; avoid fertilizing young plants
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsStems elongate and produce increasing numbers of fleshy leaves; plant fills out and begins trailing
Water when soil is completely dry; fertilize monthly with diluted succulent fertilizer during growing season; ensure good air circulation
Mature Growth & Flowering
Ongoing; flowering period 1-2 monthsLong trailing stems reach 24-48 inches or more; delicate red, pink, or yellow flower clusters appear at stem tips in late spring/summer
Continue infrequent watering; flowers are short-lived but attractive; prune or reposition trailing stems as needed; slight winter dormancy improves flowering
Dormancy & Rest
November-FebruaryGrowth slows significantly in fall and winter; plant enters semi-dormant state with minimal metabolic activity
Reduce watering dramatically; keep in cool location (50-60°F if possible); provide bright light; do not fertilize
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or insecticidal soap; remove affected leaves; ensure good air circulation to prevent infestations
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Prevent through excellent drainage and infrequent watering; if detected, repot with fresh soil and reduce watering frequency; may require fungicide treatment
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
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Remove manually with a soft brush; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; repeat every 7-10 days as needed
Uses
Ornamental Hanging Display
HouseholdDonkey Tail's cascading stems make it an ideal choice for hanging baskets, wall planters, and shelf displays indoors or on patios. The striking blue-green foliage and delicate flowers create an attractive accent in any space. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe small red and pink flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators when the plant blooms in late spring and summer. Growing Donkey Tail outdoors supports local insect populations. [source]
Propagation & Plant Sharing
CraftDonkey Tail is exceptionally easy to propagate from individual leaves or stem cuttings, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family or creating a collection of new plants. [source]
Low-Maintenance Indoor Plant
HouseholdAs a drought-tolerant succulent requiring minimal water and attention, Donkey Tail is perfect for busy gardeners, offices, and homes where plant care must be minimal. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, Sedum species are used topically for wound healing and skin irritation, though scientific evidence is limited. Always consult a healthcare provider before medicinal use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Donkey Tail is not harvested for food or fiber. Prune trailing stems year-round to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; propagate pruned stems or individual leaves to create new plants. Remove dead or yellowing leaves as they appear. Flowers can be enjoyed on the living plant but do not require harvesting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Donkey Tail earned its common name from the way its long, trailing stems resemble a donkey's tail, and it is also called 'Burro's Tail' (burro being Spanish for donkey).
- 🌱 Individual leaves are so fragile that they easily drop if the plant is moved or bumped, but these fallen leaves can be propagated into new plants, making it self-multiplying.
- 🌱 Donkey Tail is native to the mountainous regions of Mexico, where it grows on rocky cliff faces and canyon walls, explaining its extraordinary drought tolerance.
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