Metallic Palm
chamaedorea metallica
Also known as: ["Metallic Palm","Dwarf Palm"]
Overview
A small, slow-growing palm species native to Brazil, known for its unique, deeply divided, metallic-blue-green leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Arecales |
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaedorea |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaedorea metallica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and a bit of compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to bright indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable indoor temps; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust for plant size.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep consistently moist; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; encourage fuller growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Inspect for damage; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), brown leaf tips (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration if exposed to excessive heat without humidity.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChamaedorea metallica is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicChamaedorea metallica is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicChamaedorea metallica is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for human consumption and handling.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Chamaedorea metallica?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on humidity and light conditions.
Q: Does Chamaedorea metallica require direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate low-light conditions.
Q: Is Chamaedorea metallica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
