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.
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
- Choose a position where the plant is protected from frosts and cold winds.
- Good morning sun and dappled afternoon shade is ideal
- Dig the soil over well and add some compost and aged cow manure if needed.
- Plant at the same height as you Azara was in the container/
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser
- Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool moist root run.
- Water through dry dry periods during the first few summers.
- 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.
- Routine: Remove dead or damaged wood anytime.
- Shaping: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
- Espalier Option: Can be grown as a wall shrub in tight areas, although foliage may be sparse.
- 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 underutilized in landscape design but offers tremendous value:
- Suitable for urban gardens, narrow courtyards, or shaded spots.
- Works as a specimen tree, shrub border, or espaliered feature.
- Typically grows to 4 metres in cultivation, though it can reach 6–7 metres in optimal conditions.
- This really is a plant to grow for the fragrance, its not only that the flowers are ‘stunning’, they appear in masses, rather small and ‘fluffy’ however they are very fragrant.
Azara microphylla is NOT related to the vanilla orchid or vanilla vine.
Propagation
Semi hardwood cuttings taken in summer are the best method of propagation.
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
What does Azara microphylla smell like?
The flowers release a sweet vanilla scent, especially on warm winter days. Some gardeners describe it as caramel-like.
Can I grow Azara microphylla in a pot?
While possible, it prefers to be in the ground for optimal growth. If container-grown, use a large pot, well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Is Azara microphylla frost-hardy?
Only light frost tolerant. Young plants especially need protection. In colder climates, plant in a sheltered microclimateor against a wall.
When should I prune Azara microphylla?
Prune after flowering in late winter to early spring. Light shaping is all that’s usually needed.
Companion Plants
Layer these companions around Azara for a textured, fragrant, and colorful woodland garden.
Where To Buy
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