Azara is a genus of eleven species of evergreen shrubs and small trees belonging to the family Salicaceae, within the order Malpighiales. The genus is native to temperate and subtropical regions of South America, ranging from southern Brazil and Bolivia south through Argentina and Chile. Plants grow to between 1 and 8 metres tall and are typically found at woodland margins and lakesides.
The leaves of Azara are simple and alternate, measuring 1–9 cm long and 0.5–5 cm broad. A distinctive feature of some species is the enlargement of one stipule to mimic a second leaf, giving the impression of opposite or paired leaves — an unusual arrangement within the genus. The flowers are small, yellow or greenish, and strongly fragrant; they lack petals but carry a 4–5-lobed calyx and conspicuous, often brightly coloured stamens. Flowering occurs in spring. The fruit is a small red to black berry, 3–10 mm in diameter.
Azara was formerly placed in the now-disbanded family Flacourtiaceae; molecular studies led to its transfer into the broadly circumscribed Salicaceae. Several species are cultivated as ornamental plants for their fragrant spring flowers and attractive evergreen foliage. In cooler temperate climates outside their native range they typically require the shelter of a wall or protected position. Well-known cultivated species include Azara microphylla (boxleaf azara), Azara integrifolia (goldspire azara), Azara petiolaris (holly azara), and Azara lanceolata (lanceleaf azara).
Distribution
Azara is native to temperate and subtropical South America, spanning from southern Brazil and Bolivia to southern Argentina and Chile. Plants are most commonly encountered at woodland margins and lakesides.
Ecology
Within their native range, Azara species favour woodland margins and lakesides, growing in temperate to subtropical climates across South America's southern cone.
Taxonomy Notes
Azara was formerly classified in the family Flacourtiaceae. Following molecular phylogenetic studies, the genus was transferred to the broadly circumscribed family Salicaceae, where it is placed in the order Malpighiales.
Cultivation
Several Azara species are grown as ornamental garden plants, valued for their strongly fragrant spring flowers and evergreen foliage. In temperate regions outside their native South American range, plants generally require the shelter of a wall or a sheltered position to thrive. Azara microphylla (boxleaf azara) and Azara integrifolia (goldspire azara) are among the most widely cultivated.
