Chamaedorea metallica aka Metallic Palm

Taxonomy

Chamaedorea metallica (commonly known as Metallica Palm, Metal Palm and Miniature Fishtail Palm) is a species of flowering plant in the family Arecaceae. It is native to shady understory forest beds of Mexico and is a tough, slow-growing, resilient palm, tolerant of relatively low-light. It makes a good houseplant and is used commonly in commercial settings. Metallica Palm can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-12 and its mature height is five feet tall. It prefers to be kept out of direct sunlight and features stiff, dark blue-green undivided leaves with a metallic sheen, giving them the 'fish-tail' shape. It is related to Spathiphyllum, Aspidistra (Cast Iron Plant), and Janet Craig Dracaena. The genus name Chamaedorea is derived from the Ancient Greek roots meaning "gift on the ground" due to the small size of the tree, not growing taller than 20ft/6m in height and their easily harvestable fruits.

Common names

Metallic Palm, Miniature Fishtail Palm

How to care for Metallic Palm

Difficulty

Metallic Palm is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Metallic Palm does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

Metallic Palm loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Metallic Palm prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Metallic Palm to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Humidity

The Metallic Palm is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Metallic Palm should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Metallic Palm’s native range is Tropical and Subtropical Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia