How to Grow the Metallica Palm Tree (Chamaedorea metallica)

The Metallica Palm Tree, scientifically known as Chamaedorea metallica, hails from Mexico. This palm boasts foliage with a striking dark metallic blue-green sheen, which explains its common name, the Metallica Palm.

Typically, it’s best to plant this palm in groups of two or three. It’s a slow-growing small palm, making it a perfect fit for compact landscapes. Additionally, its ability to thrive in low-light conditions makes it an excellent choice for indoor cultivation.

Quick Facts:

Scientific name:	Chamaedorea metallica
Common names:	Metallica Palm, Metal Palm, Metallic Palm, Miniature Fishtail Palm, Dwarf Fishtail Palm.
Origin:	Native to Mexico.
Growth Rate:	Slow. This palm can slowly grow up to 5 ft tall and 4ft wide.
Cold Tolerance:	USDA Zones 10b (25 to 30 F) to 11 (above 40 F)
Light Req:	Partial shade to Shade.
Water Req:	Moderate.
Soil Req:	Widely adaptable.
Fruit:	Yes. Black. Not edible.
Propagation:	By seed germinating in 3-4 months.

Metallica Palm Identifying Characteristics

This palm tree features a slender green trunk encircled by old leaf scars. Its leaves are metallic blue-green, pinnately veined, and have a distinctive fishtail shape, hence the alternative name, Dwarf Fishtail Palm.

The stems measure approximately 15 inches in length, while the leaves can grow up to 30 inches long and 15 inches wide.

Flowers and Fruits of the Metallica Palm

The Metallica Palm produces small red, purple, or orange flowers arranged in a branched inflorescence. Notably, male and female flowers develop on separate plants. These flowers are succeeded by green, egg-shaped fruits that turn black when fully ripe.

Caring for the Metallica Palm

The Metallica Palm can reach a height of 5-10 feet and a width of 1-5 feet, albeit at a slow pace. It is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 25°F. It thrives best in USDA Zones 9b (with temperatures between 25 and 30°F) to 11 (above 40°F).

This palm tree prefers partial shade or full shade, making it an ideal candidate for indoor growth due to its tolerance for low light conditions.

To prevent nutritional deficiencies, it is advisable to apply a high-quality palm fertilizer with a continuous-release formula twice a year during the growing season.

Propagation of the Metallica Palm can be achieved through seeds. The seeds are most successful when planted within 4-6 weeks after the fruit ripens.