How to Grow Donkey's Tail

Donkey's tail is a trailing succulent that seems to have been tailor made for a hanging basket. Its stems can grow to 60 cm long and are covered in plump blueish green leaves. Also known as burro's tail, they make an eye catching and low maintenance patio plant.

Full sun to part shade but protected from frosts

Infrequent deep watering as required in hot dry conditions

Well drained soil

Suitable for all climatic zones. All year round

How to grow donkey's tail in a pot

Step 1

Choose a spot outdoors that receives direct morning sun or partial sun all day. In cool climates you will need to find a frost protected spot or bring your plant indoors into a warm and very brightly lit position for the winter.

Step 2

Partially fill a well-drained hanging basket or 20 cm diameter pot with a cacti & succulent potting mix.

Step 3

Gently remove the donkey's tail from its pot, place it into the new container and backfill with potting mix, ensuring that the level of new mix is the same as the original level around the plant.

Step 4

Water gently to settle the potting mix around the roots.

Step 5

Keep the potting mix consistently slightly moist. Do not overwater as Donkey's Tail does not like wet feet. Watering can be reduced during the cooler months

Step 6

From spring to autumn feed the plant regularly with a complete plant food like Yates^® Thrive^® Houseplant Liquid Plant Food, to promote lots of healthy growth.

Growing tips

Donkey's tail leaves come away from the stems very easily and will fall off with the gentlest touch or if you move or repot your plant. See these fallen leaves as an opportunity to grow more plants!
Place the leaves on top of a small pot or tray of potting mix, occasionally mist with water and within a few weeks tiny new plants will start to develop at the base of the leaf. T
hese mini plants can be potted into small containers to grow. Stem cuttings can also be used to grow more plants.