Log in or sign up

Sedum

Common name: Burro's tail · Donkey's tail

Sedum A large genus of succulent perennials in the stonecrop family, centered in the temperate northern hemisphere. Members range from creeping ground covers and the autumn-flowering border sedums to trailing types like burro's tail. All store water in their fleshy leaves and demand full sun or bright light plus very well-drained soil.

Care summary

Sun Bright light, some direct sun
Water Let soil dry fully between waterings
Soil Gritty cactus or succulent mix
Hardiness
Mature height
Pet safe

Fun facts

  • Its leaves detach at the slightest bump — each fallen leaf can root and grow a new plant.
  • It rarely blooms indoors, but mature plants can produce pink-red star-shaped flowers at the stem tips.
  • The species was first described in 1938 from a plant growing in a nursery in Veracruz, Mexico.
  • Its powdery leaf coating (farina) protects it from sun and moisture loss, and rubs off easily when handled.

The Sedum Patch

2 on xylery

Vegetative State Spore Lord Survived my two-week vacation. What a trooper. Vegetative State Spore Lord New leaf unfurled this morning! Guacamole Fund Harper Survived my two-week vacation. What a trooper. Vegetative State Spore Lord Moved closer to the window — seems happier already. Guacamole Fund Harper Moved closer to the window — seems happier already.
Browse all 2 plants

Common problems

    • Grow in gritty, fast-draining soil
    • Water only when soil is dry
    • Improve drainage before replanting
    • Plant in lean, poor soil
    • Give a position in full sun
    • Avoid feeding established clumps
    • Spray off with a hose jet
    • Apply insecticidal soap if persistent
    • Squash small colonies by hand