Azara Microphylla

Littleleaf Azara, Boxleaf Azara,

Azara microphylla — commonly called box-leaf azara — is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree valued for its fine texture, fragrant winter flowers, and year-round interest. It’s native to Chile and Argentina and is unique for its tiny glossy foliage and vanilla-scented yellow blooms in late winter to early spring.

Key features
Width / spread: typically 8–12 ft (2.5–3.7 m) at maturity in garden landscapes; can be broader with age and optimal conditions
Height: typically 12–20 ft (3.5–6 m) in landscapes; exceptional specimens may grow taller over time
Flower color: Yellow, highly fragrant late winter to early spring
Bloom time: Late winter to early spring
Foliage: Small, glossy dark green evergreen leaves
Form: Upright, open-branched shrub to small tree
Life cycle: Evergreen shrub/small tree

Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Acidic to neutral, moist, well-drained
Water: Moderate; regular but not waterlogged
Hardiness:



Zone Low: 8a



Zone High: 10b (species is generally hardy to mild temperate climates; may need protection from cold winds in cooler zones)



Landscape use
Screens and hedges
Informal specimen tree
Mixed shrub borders
Woodland edges and backdrop planting

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

15-20'

Width

8-12'

Hardiness zones

8–11

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Spring, Late Winter

Flower color

Gold, Yellow

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Fruit color

Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy well-drained

Landscape use

Privacy Screen

Shape

Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No