succulent
DecorativeBurro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)
Sedum morganianum
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs (source: ASPCA (not specifically listed; Sedum treated pet-safe)).
A sunny south-facing window with 6+ hours, or a grow light.
Let the soil dry out between waterings; it dislikes staying wet.
Needs a little consistency, but nothing fancy.
Burro’s tail is a trailing succulent with thick overlapping leaves that form long plump tails. It is generally considered pet-safe, but its leaves drop and shatter at the lightest touch.
About Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)
Burro's tail (Sedum morganianum) is a trailing succulent from southern Mexico, with thick, overlapping blue-green leaves packed into long plump tails that reach about two feet over time. Like other trailing succulents it suits a hanging pot or a high shelf, using vertical space rather than a surface, which helps in a tight rental. A small pot with gritty mix is enough.
The one catch is handling: the beaded leaves detach and shatter at the lightest touch and don't reattach, so put it somewhere it won't get brushed. Water sparingly and let the soil dry fully between waterings, and give it bright light to keep the tails dense instead of stretched. Sedum is generally treated as pet-safe, though the ASPCA does not list it specifically.
What it’s like to grow
Burro's tail is easy on water but fragile to the touch. Bare, balding stems usually mean it's been knocked or moved too often, since every bump sheds leaves. Mushy stems are the sign of overwatering, so err dry. It's a good plant for a hands-off grower with a bright, out-of-the-way spot, and a poor one for a high-traffic shelf. Sedum is generally regarded as pet-safe rather than confirmed on the ASPCA list, so it's a reasonable choice around pets without being a guarantee.
What to expect
It asks for a little consistency, but nothing fancy. No sunny window? It also does fine under a clip-on grow light.
See what you’ll need to get started ↓Grow it alongside
Houseplants that want the same light, water and humidity are happy sharing a spot. See what thrives with Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) →
Tips
- Handle it as little as possible; the beaded leaves detach easily and do not reattach.
- Water sparingly and let the soil dry fully.
- Give it bright light to keep the tails dense rather than stretched.
Common problems
- Bare stems from leaves knocked off by handling.
- Mushy stems and rot from overwatering.
Common questions
Is Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) toxic to cats and dogs?
Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) is non-toxic to cats and dogs, which makes it a safe pick if you have pets. Source: ASPCA (not specifically listed; Sedum treated pet-safe).
How much light does Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) need?
Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) wants bright light — a south-facing window with six or more hours of sun, or a grow light to make up for it.
How often should I water Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)?
Water Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) sparingly. Let the soil dry out fully between waterings — it's far more likely to rot from overwatering than to suffer from neglect.
What temperature does Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) need?
Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) is happiest around 18–26 °C. It tolerates brief dips to about 7 °C, but cold drafts and sudden chills set it back.
Can I grow Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) without a sunny window?
Yes. Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) does well under an affordable clip-on grow light, so a bright window isn't essential.
How big does Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) get?
A trailing succulent with dense, fleshy blue-green leaves; tails can reach 0.6 m over time.
How do I propagate Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)?
Lay fallen plump leaves or a stem on dry mix; they callus and root into new plants.
What pests affect Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)?
Watch for mealybugs, aphids and spider mites. Check new growth and the undersides of leaves often, and treat early with a rinse or insecticidal soap before they spread.
Is Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) easy to grow?
Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail) is moderately easy. It asks for some consistency with light and water, but nothing advanced.
Gear for Burro’s Tail (Donkey Tail)
Gear suggestions to get you started — general picks, not paid placements.
Pet-toxicity from the ASPCA. Care details are general guidance, not professional or veterinary advice. Photo: Paradoxurus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons (CC0). Care info last updated 2026-06-02.