Azara microphylla (Box Leaf Azara / Vanilla Tree)

A fragrant, evergreen tree perfect for small gardens

A small evergreen tree or shrub Azara microphylla is also known as the box leaf Azara.

Originally from Chile and Argentina the foliage is small and glossy, the tree itself has a fairly upright habit and is suited to narrow spaces.

This is a fragrant winter flowering small evergreen tree. Azara microphylla has foliage that in itself is attractive throughout the year, however with masses of little golden yellow flowers held beneath the drooping branches in winter it does have another attraction.

Is this a good plant ? Its been in cultivation for over 100 years. Not promoted much by landscapers, but much appreciated by gardeners in the know as a very good tree for small gardens.

At a Glance

• Botanical name: Azara microphylla
• Common names: Boxleaf Azara, Chin Chin, Vanilla Tree
• Plant type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
• Height: 4–6 m typically (up to 10 m in ideal conditions)
• Width: 2–4 m
• Growth habit: Upright with slightly pendulous branches
• Foliage: Small, glossy, deep green leaves
• Flowering: Late winter to early spring
• Flowers: Tiny yellow clusters with strong fragrance
• Position: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Humus-rich, moist, well-drained
• Frost tolerance: Light frost only (protect when young)

Plant Description

Azara microphylla is a small evergreen tree or large shrub with a neat, upright habit and gently arching branches. The foliage is made up of very small, deep green leaves arranged along fine stems, giving a soft, almost feathery appearance.

In winter, clusters of tiny golden-yellow flowers appear tucked beneath the foliage. While visually subtle, these “pom-pom” flowers release a rich vanilla-like fragrance that can carry through the garden on mild days.

Despite the common name, it is not related to the vanilla orchid, although the scent is often compared to vanilla or caramel.

Why Grow Azara microphylla?

Although not widely used in mainstream landscaping, this is a plant that performs exceptionally well in the right position.

• Excellent for narrow spaces and smaller gardens
• Attractive year-round foliage
• Highly fragrant winter flowers
• Suitable as a feature tree or background plant
• One of the more cold-tolerant Azara species

How to Grow Azara microphylla

From Chile and Argentina this lovely plant does need some protection from frost especially when young. A semi shaded position in a humus rich soil is best. Some moisture during summer is required.

Ideal Planting Conditions:

• Position: Morning sun with afternoon dappled shade
• Shelter: Protect from frost and cold winds, especially when young
• Soil: Humus-rich, moist, and well-drained

Planting Step Buy Step

1. Choose a position where the plant is protected from frosts and cold winds.
2. Good morning sun and dappled afternoon shade is ideal
3. Dig the soil over well and add some compost and aged cow manure if needed.
4. Plant at the same height as you Azara was in the container/
5. Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser
6. Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool moist root run.
7. Water through dry dry periods during the first few summers.
8. Renew the mulch each year.

Fertiliser

• Use a general purpose organic slow release fertiliser each spring.
• Rake  back the mulch.
• Water the soil well spread the fertiliser lightly.
• Water again and replace the mulch.

Pruning. Tips

Azara microphylla generally requires minimal pruning if given enough space.

1. Routine: Remove dead or damaged wood anytime.
2. Shaping: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
3. Espalier Option: Can be grown as a wall shrub in tight areas, although foliage may be sparse.
4. Post-Pruning Care: Fertilize and mulch after pruning to support recovery.

If you have the space let it grow into a small tree, on a a warm spring day you will rewarded with a very pleasant vanilla fragrance.

Landscaping Uses

Azara microphylla is well suited to a range of garden styles and is particularly valuable for adding winter interest.

• Ideal for small gardens and narrow planting areas
• Works well as a specimen tree or informal screen
• Suitable for woodland-style and shaded gardens
• Can be espaliered against a wall in confined spaces

Typically reaching around 4 metres in cultivation, it may grow taller in optimal conditions.

While the flowers are small, they are produced in abundance and are highly fragrant, making this a plant grown as much for scent as for appearance.

Azara microphylla is NOT related to the vanilla orchid or vanilla vine.

Propagation

Propagation is best carried out using semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. These strike reasonably well under the right conditions.

Key Features

• Botanical Name: Azara microphylla
• Common Names: Box-Leaf Azara, Chinchin
• Family: Salicaceae
• Origin: Chile and Southern Argentina.
• Growth habit: Evergreen upright shrub or tree. 
• Height: 4 – 6 metres plus
• Width: 2 – 4 metres
• Growth Rate: Medium to Fast.
• Position: Full sun to a little shade
• Soil: Humus rich well drained and moist.
• Flowers: Small fluffy bright yellow flowers.
• Flowering Time: Late winter
• Fragrant : Yes
• Foliage: Deep green, small and rounded.
• Pruning Time: Immediately after flowering
• Drought tolerant: No
• Salt tolerant: Medium
• Lifespan:  Long-lived in the right conditions

Other species

• Azara lanceolata lanceleaf azara
• Azara serrata
• Azara celastrina

We are Asked

Companion Plants

Layer these companions around Azara for a textured, fragrant, and colorful woodland garden.

Where To Buy

MUSKER'S at BROUGHTON HALL Rare Plant Nursery - ph 0417056110
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au