Burrito Sedum Help

Overview

Burrito sedum (Sedum morganianum), also called burro sedum or donkey's tail sedum, is a popular succulent for hanging baskets and indoor containers. It is a cascading plant with blue-green crescent- or jellybean-shaped leaves. It produces tiny flowers that attract hummingbirds. This unusual plant, which is native to Mexico, prefers warm, dry climates.

Features

Burrito sedums, like other succulents, have thick, fleshy leaves and rope-like stems. This helps them store water when growing in very dry conditions. They rarely flower, according to Backyard Gardener, but when they do, their flowers are pink to deep red. Burrito sedums are well-adapted to arid, low humidity conditions, and they do not need much water or fertilizer.

Soil Problems

Burrito sedums require sandy, well-drained soil. Too much watering or waterlogged soil will lead to rotting roots and stems. The ideal soil contains one part potting soil and part coarse sand. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, test the soil by moistening it and squeezing it in your hand. If the soil does not easily fall apart when you release it, it is too rich and needs more sand. Containers should have adequate drainage holes to prevent a buildup of water.

Light Problems

Like most succulents, burrito sedums require a great deal of light. If grown indoors, they should be placed in a bright, sunny window facing west or south. Their lighting can be supplemented with artificial bulbs, such as a cool white fluorescent tube. In the summer months, your sedums can be placed outdoors gradually, but they should be protected from the most intense midday sunlight. If your sedums are becoming leggy and their leaves are dropping, they may be getting insufficient light.

Water and Nutrient Problems

Burrito sedums require less water during the low-light winter months, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. During this time, water them only enough to prevent shrinking and withering. The water, which should be tepid or at room temperature, should easily flow through a container's drain holes and not be allowed to pool around the bottom. Watering deeply and less frequently is healthier than frequent, shallow watering. Burrito sedums need to dry out completely before being watered. Too much watering can lead to shriveled, yellow leaves and stems. You will not need to fertilize burrito sedums very often. A houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength can be used three or four times during the late spring and summer.

Pest and Disease Problems

The usual pests and diseases of houseplants generally avoid burrito sedums. There are a few, however, that can strike but are easy to treat. Insecticidal sprays are effective against mealybugs, aphids and fungus gnats. If the soil is kept wet for too long, diseases such as pythium and phyto-phthora may occur. They can be avoided by managing your watering and occasionally applying a fungicide.