The Azara genus is in the willow family (Salicaceae). There are about 10 species of Azara all from South America where they grow on the margins of rainforest and on damp rocky slopes. Two species are commonly seen in cultivation in the UK, this one and Azara microphylla which grows beside this one in the Botanic Gardens. The flowers have 4 to 5 sepals, no petals and up to 50 stamens which give the flowers their bright yellow colour. A shrub for sheltered gardens.

Photos taken in Belfast Botanic Gardens in 2016. Copyright: Friends of Belfast Botanic Gardens.