Azara

Azara - Distinct and graceful Chilian shrubs, or low trees, nearly hardy in many parts. On east or west walls they flower freely; while in the southern counties, at least, they do well in the open. Well-drained loam and the partial shade of taller shrubs suit them. A. Gillesi is probably the most handsome, its toothed leaves resembling in color and texture those of the Holly, with the branches tinged with red. Both in the open air and under glass it blooms in late autumn and winter, the flowers small, and resembling golden catkins. A. celastrina has rather smaller leaves, and yellow blossoms. A. integrifolia has drooping spikes of fragrant yellow blossoms, which form a dense bush a few feet in height. A. microphylla is a graceful evergreen shrub, with many small flowers, succeeded in autumn by small orange-red berries. Even quite near London it makes a good hedge, and its elegant sprays of glossy leaves are valuable for cutting in winter. Among other kinds are A. dentata, a quick grower; and A. serrata, with prettily serrated leaves, and umbels of yellow blossoms.