Azara microphylla

boxleaf azara, chinchin

Evergreen Tree

Finely textured evergreen tree with fragrant yellow flowers in late winter. Good screen or hedge for smaller gardens.


"Outstanding Qualities
This amazing small tree shines in the winter landscape. Tucked amongst the tiny evergreen foliage are clusters of yellow pom-pom like flowers that send out an intoxicating vanilla fragrance in January and February. Mature plants have gracefully layered branches. Perfect for planting under tall limbed up conifers.

Culture Notes
Azara is an excellent choice for full sun as well as light, open, or dappled shade and would prefer a spot protected from strong winter wind. Plant boxleaf azara in rich or sandy well-drained soil and, in more shaded locations, water occasionally during dry periods; water more regularly if planted in full sun. This small evergreen tree has a lovely branching habit and requires very little pruning to maintain its graceful form. The best time for removing dead, broken or poorly formed limbs is in late winter or early spring after flowering has finished.

Geek Notes
Azara microphylla is native to Chile and Argentina and was introduced to North American cultivation about 1861 by R. Pearce for Veitch nursery of England. It has been offered since 1895 or earlier in the California nursery trade."—Courtesy of Great Plant Picks

Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9

Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade, Filtered Sun, Morning Sun, Open Shade

Water Needs: Average, Occasional, Regular / Even

Description

Size: 180 - 300 tall x 72 - 144 wide
Shape / Form: Columnar / Narrow
Foliage Texture: Fine
Foliage Quality: Fine

Features: Attractive Foliage, Attracts Bees, Flowers, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Winter Interest, Year-round Interest

Foliage Color: Green

Flower Color: Yellow
Bloom Season: Winter, Jan, Feb
Flower Shape: Cluster


Fruit Description: Tan

Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Hedges and Screens, Massed, Mixed Border, Small Gardens, Structure / Foundation
Special Situations: Courtyard / Urban Garden
Wildlife: Bees

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest
Position / Role: canopy, back drop
Collections: eGardenGo Favorite, Great Plant Pick, Plants That Earn Their Keep

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low


Suitable Substitutes

Plant Combos