How to Grow Donkey Tail Spurge
Donkey Tail Spurge
Sedum morganianum 'Burro's Tail'
succulentDonkey Tail Spurge is a trailing succulent with thick, plump, blue-green leaves densely packed along elongated stems that can reach 2-3 feet in length. It produces delicate pink or red flowers at the stem tips in spring and summer. This low-maintenance plant is prized for hanging baskets and container gardens due to its distinctive cascading growth habit.
When should you plant Donkey Tail Spurge in your zone?
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Example Donkey Tail Spurge timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Donkey Tail Spurge
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 Spurge
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; can be grown outdoors year-round in warm climates or as a houseplant elsewhere
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Get my Donkey Tail Spurge timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNewly propagated or potted plants with minimal growth; leaves may appear slightly stressed
Keep soil barely moist for first 2-3 weeks; provide bright indirect light; avoid full sun; allow roots to establish before normal watering
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early fallStems elongate and new leaves continuously emerge along the length; plant develops its characteristic trailing form
Water only when soil is completely dry; provide bright light; fertilize monthly during spring/summer with diluted succulent fertilizer; stems can be gently pruned to encourage branching
Flowering
April-July (spring/summer)Small, star-shaped pink or red flowers appear clustered at the tips of mature stems; flowers are delicate and short-lived
Maintain regular but sparse watering; ensure adequate light to promote blooming; do not disturb flowering stems; flowers indicate healthy, mature growth
Dormancy
October-February (fall/winter)Growth slows considerably; plant appears less vigorous; leaves may take on deeper coloration
Reduce watering to once monthly or less; provide cooler temperatures (50-60°F if possible); avoid fertilizing; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plants; remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs for small infestations
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Remove manually with rubbing alcohol; treat with horticultural oil; severe infestations may require systemic insecticide
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Allow soil to dry between waterings; use sticky traps; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh soil if severe
Uses
Hanging Basket Display
HouseholdThe cascading stems make Donkey Tail Spurge an ideal choice for hanging baskets, wall-mounted planters, and elevated shelves. Its trailing growth naturally creates an elegant, waterfall-like effect. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe pink and red flowers attract bees and small pollinators, making it a useful plant in outdoor succulent gardens during its blooming season. [source]
Low-Maintenance Indoor Plant
HouseholdDonkey Tail Spurge thrives indoors on bright windowsills with minimal care, making it ideal for busy gardeners or those new to plant care. [source]
Succulent Arrangements & Terrariums
CraftIndividual leaves and stem segments can be propagated and used in mixed succulent containers, living wreaths, and landscape design projects. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalLike other Sedum species, some cultures have traditionally used it topically for minor skin irritations, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for yield, but can be propagated year-round from leaf or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to dry 3-5 days before placing on dry soil; roots emerge in 2-4 weeks. Deadhead spent flowers to maintain plant appearance.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Donkey Tail Spurge gets its common name from the resemblance of its trailing stems to a donkey's tail; it's also called 'Burro's Tail,' with 'burro' being Spanish for donkey.
- 🌱 The leaves are so succulent and delicate that they drop easily when touched or jostled, which is why these plants are often placed in locations where they won't be disturbed frequently.
- 🌱 A single leaf can propagate into an entire new plant; simply place a healthy fallen leaf on dry soil and mist occasionally until roots and a tiny rosette form.
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