Sedum Burrito, a stunning trailing succulent that is popular with its short, round leaves, compactly arranged on its stems like precious emeralds. As a member of the Crassulaceae family, this enchanting succulent is not too picky about its growth environment, allowing even the busiest of individuals to enjoy its beauty without worry.
Also known as Sedum Morganianum Burrito, the hanging succulent features clusters of red flowers that bloom gracefully at the ends of its leaves. The sedum succulent is easy to propagate, it also symbolizes eternal love and unwavering dedication. Therefore, it makes an excellent choice as a gift to your friends.
Let's dive in and uncover caring for and propagate the beauty of Sedum Burrito!
The difference between Sedum Burrito and Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Burrito and Sedum Morganianum are often confused due to their similar appearance. However, let's take a closer look at Sedum Morganianum. Its most distinctive feature is its crescent-shaped leaves, where it got its common name 'Donkey Tail' or 'Burro's Tail'.
When compared, Sedum Burrito differs from Sedum Morganianum in its leaf shape and tail-like appearance. Unlike the crescent-shaped leaves of Sedum Morganianum, Sedum Burrito showcases short, round leaves that resemble small beads or gummy candies, giving it an overall adorable look.
Speaking of which, I can't help but introduce you to another delightful succulent - Sedeveria' Harry Butterfield'. This charming succulent is a hybrid between Sedum Morganianum and Echeveria Derenbergii, combining the best traits of both parent species. With the potential to grow slightly larger, it has earned the endearing nickname of "Super Donkey Tail".
How to care for Sedum Burrito
Temperature
Sedum Burrito, as a soft succulent can thrive in most regions, showcasing strong adaptability to its environment, with a temperature range of 41°F to 85°F. However, like many other succulent plants, an ideal temperature range of 64°F to 75°F is recommended for optimal growth.
During the summer, providing proper care requires some attention. If grown indoors, ensure adequate ventilation, especially when temperatures exceed 86°F (30°C). Sedum Burrito is susceptible to leaf drop due to overheating of its roots in such conditions. In the winter, when temperatures drop below 41°F (5°C), the plant will enter a dormant phase. It is essential not to expose this succulent to freezing temperatures, as frost can also lead to leaf loss.
Sunlight
How much sunlight does Sedum Burrito need? The answer is approximately 4-5 hours of indirect sunlight daily to maintain its compact shape and vibrant green color. I recommend using hanging planters and placing them on sunlit windowsills. Over time, the cascading leaves will create a stunning waterfall effect, adding beauty to any space.
Have you ever seen pink or rainbow-colored Sedum Burrito? It's all about the sunlight—lots of it! You can try placing your Sedum Burrito on a sunny patio or in the garden where it can receive 6-7 hours of sunlight, particularly during spring and autumn growing seasons. Please note: Don't try this in the summer and winter.
Watering
Like most succulents, Sedum Burrito follows the "soak and dry" watering method. When growing seasons of spring and autumn, providing ample water aids its rapid growth. Watering once every 1-2 weeks is suitable for most regions. However, the most reliable method is to assess the soil moisture and observe the succulent leaves' condition. If the leaves become soft and wrinkled, it's a sign of dehydration.
In the summer and winter, exercise caution with watering, as the plant enters its dormant phases. Watering once a month should be sufficient during these seasons. As mentioned earlier, high temperatures during the summer can lead to leaf drop, and a combination of heat and humidity can cause root rot in succulents. Click here to learn how to care for succulent in summer.
Soil and Planter
In general, commercial succulent potting mixes have good drainage properties and are suitable for the growth of Sedum Burrito. However, if you aim to train these hanging plants to become cliff succulent, the choice of soil becomes crucial. To enhance drainage, you must mix succulent potting soil and Granular soil in a 1:1 ratio. Additionally, fertilize during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for the succulent. This way, the plant will be less prone to root rot and thrive better.
Considering the growth tendencies of Sedum Burrito, it initially grows upright when it's a young succulent. Therefore, there's no need to plant it in a pot that is too large or deep. A pot size 1-2 inches larger than the plant is sufficient. As Sedum Burrito matures, it will start trailing, so prepare a larger hanging planter to reduce the frequency of repotting and avoid leaf drops caused by frequent repotting.
Pruning
Pruning allows Sedum Burrito to maintain a perfect shape, making it a delightful display even as a potted centerpiece. The best time for pruning is during the spring.
By selectively trimming back leggy or elongated stems, you can encourage the succulent plant to grow more compact and bushier. This enhances its overall appearance and gives it a more vibrant look.
The cutted branches and leaves can also be used for propagation. Keep reading to explore how to propagate Sedum Burrito together.
How to Propagate Sedum Burrito
One of the great advantages of Sedum Burrito's easy propagation is that it solves various plant issues. When you notice your Sedum Burrito becoming leggy or elongated, or if you encounter problems with the root system causing the stems to wither, propagation can come to the rescue.
There are two primary methods of propagation for Sedum Burrito succulent: stem cuttings and leaf cuttings.
Stem Cuttings:
1. Select a healthy stem from the Sedum Burrito plant at least 4-6 inches long. Make a cut just below a leaf node using clean and sharp scissors.
2. Allow the cutting to callus over for a day or two. This step helps prevent rotting when the cutting is placed in the soil.
3. Prepare a well-draining propagation mix by combining succulent potting mix and perlite in equal parts.
4. Insert the callused end of the stem cutting about 1-2 inches into the propagation mix. Ensure it is stable and upright.
5. Place the cutting in a ventilate and bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight during this stage, as it can cause the cutting to dry out.
6. Mist the cutting lightly with water every few days to moisten the soil. After a few weeks, the succulent cutting should develop roots, and you'll notice new growth emerging from the stem.
Leaf Cuttings:
1. Gently pluck a healthy leaf from the main plant, making sure to remove it cleanly from the stem.
2. Allow the leaf cutting to callus for a day or two to prevent rotting.
3. Fill a small container with the same well-draining propagation mix used for stem cuttings.
4. Place the callused end of the leaf cutting on top of the soil, ensuring it makes good contact with the mix.
5. Mist the soil lightly to keep it slightly moist, but avoid overwatering as excessive moisture can cause the leaf to rot.
6. Place the container in a ventilate location with indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, small roots should start forming at the leaf's base, and a new plantlet will emerge.
Tips: To enhance the fullness of the original succulent, you can sprinkle the leaves around the base of the main plant. The succulent arrangement will become lusher and more vibrant as the new plantlets emerge.
Click here to read the extra tip on succulent propagation from leaves and cuttings.
Why Sedum Burrito Drop Leaves?
If you've noticed leaves falling off your Sedum Burrito, don't worry—it's quite common! Sedum Burrito's leaves are delicate and easily dislodged, which isn't your fault at all. To minimize leaf drop during daily care, try to avoid touching the leaves whenever possible.
During your regular care routine, try your best to avoid touching the leaves. Instead, opt for bottom watering to keep the leaves dry and minimize disturbance.
Sedum Burrito can be intriguing to kids and pets due to its appearance, so it's a good idea to place it in a secure location where it won't be disturbed.
If you happen to receive some healthy dropped leaves (consider yourself "lucky"!), you might want to try leaf propagation as a fun way to expand your plant collection.
With a little care and attention, your Sedum Burrito will continue to thrive and delight with its unique charm!
Conclusion
As you nurture and care for Sedum Burrito, may it fill your surroundings with a touch of nature's grace and remind you of the eternal love and dedication that blooms with every passing day. Embrace the world of Sedum Burrito, where beauty and love intertwine, and let its presence be a testament to the enduring joys of nature's embrace. Happy gardening!
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