Donkey's Tail

Water the soil when it's dry, but never let the plant sit in water. Water should run through the pot and drain out the bottom, so the plant isn't sitting in water. Depending on the environment, slighly more or less water may be needed. During the active growing season—from spring to fall—it should be watered more frequently. In winter, water should only be added when the soil has dried out completely.

This plant prefers a bright spot where it gets full sunlight or bright light all day. It needs 8-12 hours of sun daily. Outdoors, bright and indirect light is also a good choice for this plant. Avoid direct sun on very hot days, as this can cause leaves to wash out and the stems to sunburn.

Donkey's tail prefers temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21-32°C), although it can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in winter. It doesn't do well in colder temperatures, so it's best to keep it indoors over winter.

The plant likes it dry, as it's native to desert and canyon areas. Very humid environments should be avoided, as this can encourage diseases and fungal infections.

Donkey’s tail prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly sandy. Use a commercial cactus/succulent mix or mix your own, ideally using a light, fast-draining potting soil combined with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice.

Fertilize Donkey’s tail from spring to fall, every 4-6 weeks. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or one specific for succulent plants, with the appropriate concentration as indicated on the back of the fertilizer container.

Donkey’s tail is generally resistant to the usual pests and diseases, but may sometimes suffer from mealybugs. If spotted, spray them with a gentle insecticide and, once under control, provide the plant with the best care possible. To remove mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. If insect infestation becomes severe, discard the entire plant and obtain a healthy specimen from the store.

Donkey’s tail doesn’t require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2-3 years in springtime, when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing. Use a thin, well-draining pot with plenty of drainage holes on the bottom so the plant isn’t sitting in water.

Donkey’s tail don't require pruning, as it can tolerate drastic pruning and still develop a full, bushy appearance. If you choose to prune, do it in spring or summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing. Make sure to use sharp, clean pruners so the succulent has a clean cut and doesn't rot.

Mulching isn't necessary for this plant, but it can help with soil retention and water drainage. Use course particles such as bark chips, pebbles, or rock.

Donkey’s tail can be easily propagated by stem cuttings or stem segments. Take a cutting with 1-2 segments from an actively growing stem, making sure to use a sharp blade or scissors. Let the stem cutting dry for a few days to allow the cut end to form a callus, then dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in potting soil. Place the pot in a bright, warm location, and keep it slightly moist until new growth appears.

Donkey’s tail doesn’t require support, as it forms a naturally appealing drooping shape with trailing shoots. You may wish to place the plant in a hanging basket or above a shelf to show off its cascading stems.

Donkey’s tail doesn't require a rest period, though it will benefit from slightly reduced watering during winter. Allow the soil to dry out before adding more water, and protect the plant from cold and frost.

This plant is not poisonous to animals and is safe to keep around pets as long as they don't eat it.