Description

Azara Micro. Boxleaf Azara is an elegant evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its fine-textured, boxwood-like foliage and wonderfully scented yellow pom‑pom flowers that open from late winter into early spring. In mild regions, its layered, horizontal branching creates a graceful screen or espalier, while the sweet chocolate/vanilla fragrance carries on cool evenings when few other plants are in bloom. Best in a sheltered spot with morning sun and afternoon shade, it thrives where soils are fertile and evenly moist. Note: This plant is commonly known in horticulture as Azara microphylla (Boxleaf azara).

Suggested Uses

• Fragrantwinter interest near doors/paths
• Woodland and shade borders
• Evergreen screening or informal hedge
• Espalier against a warm wall
• Large patio container (move to shelter in freezes)
• Pollinator support in late winter
• Courtyard and coastal-mild gardens

Plant Details

• Botanical NameAzara Micro. Boxleaf Azara (widely known as Azara microphylla)
• Common NameAzara Micro. (Boxleaf azara, Vanilla azara)
• Size & Growth12–20 ft tall × 6–12 ft wide; upright, layered branching; trainable as small tree or espalier; slow to moderate growth.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 8–10 (7b with excellent shelter and winter protection).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; tiny, glossy, boxwood-like leaves on horizontally tiered stems.
• Bloom TimeLate winter to early spring (often February–April), clusters of small yellow flowers.
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; faster in rich, evenly moist soils with shelter from wind.
• Light RequirementsPartial shade to bright, dappled light; morning sun with afternoon shade preferred. In cool-summer climates, tolerates full sun if soil stays evenly moist.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes — early-season nectar source for bees and hoverflies.
• Indoor FriendlyPrimarily an outdoor shrub; can be kept in a bright, cool sunroom or conservatory in colder zones.
• Container FriendlyYes — thrives in large containers with consistent moisture; move to a protected spot during hard freezes.
• Deer ResistantModerately deer resistant; not usually a first choice for browsing.
• Pet WarningNo confirmed toxicity reported for Azara microphylla; still avoid ingestion and discourage chewing to prevent GI upset.
• FragrantYes — notable chocolate/vanilla aroma, especially in the evening during bloom.
• Cut FlowerOccasionally; small blooms but branches can be cut for fragrance (short vase life).
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Camellia, Sarcococca, Daphne, Fatsia, Helleborus, Mahonia, Pieris, Ferns, Heuchera, Fuchsia, Hydrangea.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or fall in a sheltered site. Dig a hole 2× the width of the root ball and equal depth; set the crown level with the soil surface. Backfill with native soil blended with compost, water thoroughly, and mulch 2–3 inches, keeping mulch off stems.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist, especially for the first 1–2 years. Do not allow prolonged drought; avoid waterlogged conditions by ensuring good drainage.
• Soil TypeFertile, well‑drained loam is ideal; tolerates sandy or clay soils when amended with organic matter. pH slightly acidic to neutral (approx. 6.0–7.0).
• HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is fine. For indoor overwintering, provide moderate humidity and good air circulation in a bright, cool room.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. Lightly shape immediately after flowering; remove dead, damaged, or crossing wood. For espalier, tie in young, flexible shoots; avoid hard cuts into old wood.
• Winter CareMulch root zone in late fall and shield from cold, drying winds. In zones colder than 8, overwinter container plants in a bright, frost‑free space (35–45°F / 2–7°C) and water sparingly to keep soil just moist.
• Planting DepthPlant at the same depth as it grew in the container; do not bury the trunk flare. Maintain a mulch‑free gap around stems to prevent rot.
• FertilizationFeed in early spring with a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer or top‑dress with compost. Container plants benefit from light, monthly feeding during the growing season; avoid heavy nitrogen.
• Special CareProvide afternoon shade in hot‑summer regions; train against a warm wall for improved flowering. Water during heatwaves; watch for scale or aphids and treat early. In containers, flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup.