The Donkey Tail plant (Sedum Morganianum) is a type of Sedum belonging to the family Crassulaceae. This succulent plant hails from Mexico and is very easy to care for both indoors and out.
You may also hear this plant referred to as Burro’s Tail, Horse’s Tail or Lambs Tail because of its cascading, rambling growth habit and the fact that its tendrils can be said to resemble a donkey or burros tail.
There are other plants that are also commonly called Donkey Tail, and it is important not to confuse them. One such plant is Myrtle or Creeping Spurge. Like most spurges, this plant is rather toxic.
You must be careful when handling any type of spurge, but generally speaking, Sedum are non-toxic or only mildly toxic. Burro’s Tail is not at all toxic to kids, pets, or livestock. [source]
Which Succulents Are Poisonous to Dogs and Cats?
Some other types of Sedum (aka stonecrop) may have mild to severe toxic effects. There are more than three hundred different types of Sedum, and these herbaceous perennials are commonly used as landscape plants and as houseplants.
Some are entirely non-toxic and are used as interesting additions to stir-fries, salads and soups. Others may cause gastrointestinal distress when consumed and may also cause contact dermatitis due to alkaloids, sedine and/or sedamine content.
In those members of this plant family that are mildly to severely toxic, offending components can be found in all parts of the plant including:
- Sap/Juice
- Flowers
- Leaves
- Fruits
- Roots
- Seeds
- Stems
This is why it is always a good idea to protect your skin with long sleeves and gloves when pruning any succulent, especially if you are unsure of its toxicity level. Always wash your hands after handling plants.
Is Donkey Tail Safe?
In the final analysis, even though the Burros Tail is non-toxic to cats and dogs, it’s a good idea to keep it (and all Sedum) out of the reach of children, pets and livestock.
Donkey’s Tail plants are a good choice for use as hanging succulent plants both because of its cascading growth habit and the fact that it is a bit fragile.
The thick, succulent leaves tend to fall off easily, and if they fall in soil they will take root and grow.
In the case of burro’s tail, keeping the plant in a hanging basket, well out of reach protects it and prevents damage to the plant.
In the case of other types of Sedum, keeping the plant out of reach protects both house plants and kids, pets and other critters from potential discomfort.
If you suspect poisoning at all call 911 or the poison control hotline (USA 1-800-222-1222) right away.
[source]