How to propagate donkey’s tail
Sedum morganianum
Donkey’s tail propagates best from leaf cuttings in spring or summer. Cuttings usually root in 2–3 weeks.
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How to propagate by leaf cuttings
Donkey’s tail can be grown from single leaves. A leaf left to dry and set on gritty mix forms roots and then a small new plant at its base.
- 01
Choose a plump, healthy leaf. Spring and summer give the fastest results.
- 02
Twist the leaf gently off the stem so its base comes away whole.
- 03
Leave the leaves in a dry, shaded spot for 2–5 days until the cut ends have dried and sealed.
- 04
Lay small leaves flat on a tray of gritty cactus or succulent mix.
- 05
Leave them uncovered and do not water yet. Once roots show, water lightly whenever the mix has dried out.
- 06
Keep them in bright, indirect light, out of direct sun.
- 07
Usually roots in 2–3 weeks. A new plant grows from the base while the old leaf slowly shrivels: pot it up once it has a few leaves of its own.
Stem cuttings
Donkey’s tail roots readily from stem pieces. Succulent stems hold their own water, so the cutting dries first and never goes into water or under a bag.
- 01
Choose a healthy stem tip and cut it with a clean, sharp tool. Keep several leaves on the cutting.
- 02
If leaves sit along the lower part of the stem, pull off the lowest few so 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 in) of bare stem can go into the mix.
- 03
Leave the cutting in a dry, shaded spot for 1–3 days until the cut end has dried and sealed.
- 04
Set it into a small pot of gritty cactus or succulent mix, just deep enough to stand. Lay trailing strands flat on the surface so the nodes touch the mix.
- 05
Leave it uncovered and do not root it in water. Trapped moisture rots succulent stems.
- 06
Keep it in bright, indirect light. Start watering lightly about a week after potting, and only once the mix has dried out.
- 07
Roots usually form in 2–4 weeks. When a gentle tug meets resistance, the cutting has rooted: care for it as a mature plant.
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Common questions
What is the best way to propagate donkey’s tail?
The most reliable method for donkey’s tail (Sedum morganianum) is leaf cuttings. It’s an easy process that beginners can handle well.
When should I propagate donkey’s tail?
The best time is spring to summer, when the plant is actively growing and roots form most quickly.
How long does it take donkey’s tail to root?
Expect roots to appear within roughly 2–3 weeks, given warm temperatures and good indirect light.
Propagation guidance is based on genus-level horticultural knowledge. Individual specimens can vary.
Sources: NC State Extension.
7 steps · 2–3 weeks · Last reviewed: