How Tall Does a Live Forever Plant Grow

The Live Forever plant, also known as Sedum morganianum or Donkey’s Tail, is a popular succulent that is beloved by many indoor plant enthusiasts for its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. Native to Mexico, this plant is characterized by its long trailing stems covered in thick, fleshy leaves that resemble the tail of a donkey, hence its common name.

One of the common questions among Live Forever plant owners is how tall this plant can grow. While there isn’t a definitive answer to this question, as it largely depends on various factors such as environmental conditions and care practices, we can provide some general guidelines based on observations and experiences of plant enthusiasts.

Growth Habit

The Live Forever plant has a trailing growth habit, meaning its stems will cascade downwards rather than grow upright like many other plants. This unique growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or elevated shelves where its trailing stems can be showcased. The stems of the Live Forever plant can reach impressive lengths of up to 3 feet or more under optimal growing conditions.

Factors Affecting Growth

Several factors can influence the growth and height of a Live Forever plant. These factors include:

Light

Light is crucial for the healthy growth of any plant, and the Live Forever plant is no exception. In their natural habitat, these plants are accustomed to receiving bright, indirect sunlight. When grown indoors, they should be placed near a window that receives plenty of indirect light throughout the day. Insufficient light can lead to elongated stems that are weak and prone to breaking.

Temperature

The Live Forever plant is native to regions with mild temperatures. It thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C – 24°C). Extreme temperature fluctuations or prolonged exposure to cold drafts can stunt the growth of this succulent.

Watering

As with most succulents, overwatering is one of the common causes of poor growth in the Live Forever plant. These plants have adapted to survive in arid environments by storing water in their leaves and stems. They prefer infrequent watering but require thorough watering when done. Proper drainage is essential to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and hinder growth.

Soil

The Live Forever plant requires well-draining soil with good aeration. A mix specifically formulated for succulents or cacti is ideal. These soil mixes typically contain coarse sand or perlite, which helps prevent water from sitting around the roots for an extended period.

Fertilizer

Live Forever plants are not heavy feeders and can survive without frequent fertilization. However, providing a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) can promote healthy growth. It’s essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil.

Pruning and Propagation

Pruning can play a role in controlling the height of your Live Forever plant. If you want to maintain a more compact and bushy appearance, you can trim the trailing stems periodically. Pruning also helps remove any leggy or weak growth.

Additionally, Live Forever plants are relatively easy to propagate through stem cuttings. You can snip off a healthy stem just above a leaf node and place it in well-draining soil. Within a few weeks, roots will develop, and a new plant will begin to grow.

Conclusion

While Live Forever plants are known for their trailing growth habit, they can reach impressive lengths under optimal growing conditions. With proper care in terms of light, temperature, watering, soil, and occasional pruning, these unique succulents can thrive and grow up to 3 feet or more. Remember that individual variations may occur depending on the specific environment and care provided. Enjoy watching your Live Forever plant flourish and cascade with its beautiful trailing stems!