Metaxya rostrata Plant Care

Metaxya rostrata (Metaxya rostrata) belongs to the Metaxyaceae family within the Metaxya genus. Metaxya rostrata is native to the neotropics. Metaxya rostrata is also known as Beaucarnea rostrata.

Metaxya rostrata displays a large, spreading fern growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 4 ft. Metaxya rostrata produces non-flowering.

Leaf size: approximately 18 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Metaxya rostrata every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Metaxya rostrata thrives in bright indirect to low light. Avoid placing Metaxya rostrata in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Metaxya rostrata tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Metaxya rostrata prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, rich, acidic soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Metaxya rostrata to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Metaxya rostrata every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect to low light and well-draining, rich, acidic soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Metaxya rostrata is suited to USDA Zone 11a – 12b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Metaxya rostrata can spread to about 4 ft (1.2 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 4 ft (1.2 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Metaxya rostrata while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Metaxya rostrata is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 11). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Metaxya rostrata can be propagated through spores, division of rhizomes.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Metaxya rostrata is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Metaxya rostrata grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 11a. Metaxya rostrata is native to the neotropics. In cooler regions, grow Metaxya rostrata as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.