Care of the succulent plant Sedum morganianum or Donkey tail |
The genus Sedum, family Crassulaceae, comprises 350 species of succulent plants distributed in cold and temperate regions of almost the entire planet. Some species are: Sedum morganianum, Sedum dendroideum, Sedum confusum, Sedum album, Sedum pachyphyllum, Sedum moranense, Sedum clavatum, Sedum rubrotinctum, Sedum acre, Sedum sieboldii, Sedum dasyphyllum, Sedum palmeri, Sedum spurium, Sedum spectabile. Common names: Donkey tail, Burro's tail. This species is native to Mexico and Honduras. They are erect, evergreen succulent plants (they become hanging with age) with stems that reach 40 cm (15.7") in length. They have fleshy lanceolate bluish-green leaves. The flowers appear at the tips of the stems and are red or pink. They bloom in late spring and early summer. Donkey tail is used in pots and hanging planters (indoors or outdoors), on rockeries and on low walls. Sedum morganianum can grow in full sun exposure but prefers light shade or well-lit exposure without direct sun at noon. In winter the temperature should not be less than 5 ºC (41 ºF). The soil must drain very well and be light; use a commercial substrate for cacti and succulents. Transplantation and planting are done in spring. Burro's tail resists drought well but welcome regular watering in spring and summer, always waiting for the soil to dry out. In autumn reduce watering and do not water in winter. Fertilize with compost in early spring. Prune after flowering to remove dry stems and wilted flowers. Sedum morganianum is a plant resistant to pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering. Donkey tail is propagated by stem cuttings that must be handled with care because the leaves fall off easily. |
Images of the succulent plant Sedum morganianum or Donkey tail |