About Azara microphylla Hook.fil.
Azara microphylla, commonly called boxleaf azara, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the willow family, Salicaceae. It is native to Chile and Argentina. It reaches a maximum height of 10 metres (33 ft), and grows as a small, upright evergreen tree or a large shrub. This species bears small, shiny, very dark green leaves, and produces tiny, vanilla-scented flowers during winter. Its leaves grow no longer than 2.5 cm (1 in). The specific epithet microphylla is derived from the Greek words micro, meaning 'small', and phyllos, meaning 'leaf'. Boxleaf azara is the hardiest species in the Azara genus, and can tolerate temperatures as low as −15 °C (5 °F). Even so, it needs some protection from cold winds when grown in cooler temperate regions. It is also able to tolerate full shade. This plant has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
