SCIENTIFIC NAME: Chamaedorea metallica

COMMON NAME(S): Miniature fishtail palm
SUB FAMILY: Ceroxyloideae
TRIBE: Hyophorbeae
ORIGIN: Mexico
HARDINESS ZONES: 10B-11 (no problem at 26 degrees F)
TYPICAL MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 4'
GROWTH RATE: Slow
HABIT: Solitary; canopy of 10-15 leaves
SALT TOLERANCE: Low
DROUGHT TOLERANCE: Moderate
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Widely adaptable
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Low; moderate
NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS: Moderate
POPULAR USES: Specimen plant; foliage plant
HUMAN HAZARDS: Fruit a mild irritant
POPULAR OR RECOMMENDED CULTIVARS: None

COMMENTS: This fishtail-leafed Chamaedorea is unique in the genus for the beautiful, shiny blue-green cast of its broad and (usually) only two-lobed leaves. It is most striking when several plants are placed close together, whether in the landscape or in containers. The leaves look their best if the plant is protected from drying winds and strong sunlight. This species prospers in soils with increased amounts of organic material. On sandy soils, regular application of mulch is beneficial. C. metallica makes an excellent indoor plant as well, and will occupy a dark corner for months in good condition. Similar species: C. ernesti-augusti is an allied species similar in appearance to C. metallica but lacking the distinctive metallic sheen and color. It produces aerial roots at nodes along the entire stem like C. elegans, and can reach over 6' in height.