How to Propagate Burro Tail Cacti

Burro's tail and jellybean are common names for the plant formally known as Sedum morganianum. The succulent comes from Mexico. In the United States, it grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9 to 11 or as houseplants. The stems on burro's tail droop under the heavy weight of many juxtaposed 1 1/4-inch-long leaves filled with reserve moisture. Pink-to-red flowers bloom in spring at the tip of leafless stems. Pluck a leaf -- a "jellybean" -- off the burro's tail to start a new plant.

Things You'll Need

• Planter with drainage holes
• Cacti potting mix

Instructions

1. Fill a planter with potting mix formulated for growing cacti. Irrigate it until water drips from the drainage holes.

2. Break a leaf off the burro's tail by hand.

3. Push the leaf's cut end into the cacti mix. Leave the tip exposed. Roots appear in a few weeks. Do not cover the pot with plastic; irrigate after the soil dries somewhat to prevent rot.

4. Transplant the rooted burro's tail outside if you live in the right climate. If you don't, leave the plant where it is until it outgrows the pot.

Tips & Warnings

• The hanging stems of burro's tail break easily. Lay the broken sections on the surface of moist cacti mix to root and save them.

References

• Plant of the Week; Sedum Morganianum - Burro's Tail; Cal Lemke; April 21-27, 2006
• Denver Plants: Common Names: "Burro's Tail" or "Jelly Bean Plant"