Azara microphylla aka Box Leaf Azara

Azara microphylla, or boxleaf azara, is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the willow family, Salicaceae. Its native range runs through central and southern Chile into southern Argentina. It grows on both sides of the Andes. Wild plants occur in woodland undergrowth, at forest edges, and beside lakes. Its small leaves stay green through the year.

Garden plants often reach 12–20 feet (3.7–6.1 metres) tall. The RHS gives a taller range, reaching 26 feet (8 metres). Tree forms can reach 30 feet (9 metres). The spread is about 8–13 feet (2.5–4 metres). Its branches form a loose, fountain-like shape. Young plants grow slowly, and full size may take 20–50 years. The small, glossy leaves range from oval to round. Their edges are smooth or have faint teeth. Leaves grow alternately but seem to form pairs. Each apparent pair includes a true leaf and a smaller, leaf-like stipule.

Small flower clusters grow where the leaves meet the stems. They open from February to March, or early spring. The flowers lack petals and have greenish sepals. Yellow stamens give them their bright colour. Their strong scent recalls vanilla, though some people detect chocolate. Small red to orange-red fruit may follow the flowers. The RHS notes that fruit seldom forms. Reports put its width at about 3–5 millimetres. Plants For A Future lists the fruit as edible, but gives no preparation details. It reports no known hazards or medicinal uses.

This plant grows in sun or partial shade. Missouri Botanical Garden favours light shade for best growth. Give it deep, fertile soil rich in humus. It needs good drainage and a steady supply of moisture. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. Choose a sheltered site away from cold, drying winds. Sources rate it for USDA zones 8–10 and UK hardiness H4. Summer semi-hardwood cuttings provide one way to raise new plants.

Boxleaf azara suits an informal hedge, screen, or single specimen. A sheltered south-facing wall can provide a useful growing site. Its evergreen leaves and scented flowers add interest near borders. Missouri Botanical Garden reports resistance to deer and rabbits. Serious pest and disease problems are not usual. Honey fungus may affect plants where it already occurs. The RHS says the degree of risk remains unclear.