Encore Autumn Royalty Azalea flowers in both spring and fall

Last Updated on: 8th December 2024, 10:51 am

Encore Autumn Royalty Azalea mass planting

Learn why the American Rhododendron Society has voted “azalea of the year.”

While some azaleas show off their colors only in the early spring, the hybrid Rhododendron x Conlec is part of the Encore series. What makes the Autumn Royalty azalea shrubs different from many is the ability to bloom multiple times during the year. Some call the flowers purple; others display them as bright pink due to soil pH variations. Whatever color you see, these shrubs provide beautiful color when almost every other azalea has long since bloomed.

Many clients of Tayloe’s Lawn Care Services, LLC, ask how they can have more color in the fall. Spring and summer offers so many lovely flowering shrubs and trees. As they finish, fall blooms take their place but are more limited. The Encore azalea Autumn Royalty can be an excellent option for those with slightly acidic soil, as they provide lovely flowers to the garden into the first few weeks of fall.

Evergreen Shrub Offers Dark Green Foliage Year Round

At maturity, Autumn Royalty Azaleas are evergreen shrubs that can reach heights of 4 to 5 feet with a similar spread, or width. They are adorned with large, deep pink to purple, eye-catching flowers. The foliage remains lush and green throughout the year, providing an attractive backdrop even when the plant is not blooming.

They grow in USDA cold hardy zones 6 to 10.

Growing Conditions (Full Sun to Partial Shade)

Azalea autumn royaly thrives in partial shade to full sun, though they prefer a spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. They are heat tolerant and somewhat drought tolerant after establishing roots.

They require well-drained soil with slight acidity. Enrich it with organic matter to flourish. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater, as they do not tolerate standing water.

Planting and Care Tips

Wondering how to plant the Encore azalea Autumn Royalty? It takes a few easy steps.

Planting Time: The best time to plant Autumn Royalty Azaleas is in the early spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.
Soil Preparation: To ensure proper drainage and acidity, amend the soil with compost or peat moss. Take a pH sample from the before you amend – it prefers a ground pH of 5.5 to 6.5. You can grab a test kit at the hardware store.
Watering: Water the plants deeply once a week, increasing frequency during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize: Add slow-release fertilizer to this plant in the late winter, before the branches start actively growing, after the colorful spring show, and in the late summer, just before it blooms for the second time in the season.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant for moisture retention and to regulate soil temperature. This will keep the area in good condition and assist with preventing soil erosion.
Pruning: Light pruning after the springtime bloom can help maintain a good shape and encourage healthy growth.

Like most other azaleas you might have in your landscape, it takes little to keep the Encore Autumn Royalty Azalea in healthy condition.

Seasonal Interest in This Lovely Evergreen Shrub

One of the most appealing features of the Autumn Royalty Azalea is its ability to provide vibrant color during both spring and fall. This dual blooming cycle adds long-lasting visual interest to your outdoor spaces, making it a favorite among gardeners who want to enjoy seasonal beauty.

Encore Autumn Royalty Azalea (photo taken at nursery)

Landscape Uses for Autumn Royalty

Autumn Royalty Azaleas are versatile and can be used in various landscape designs. They make excellent foundation plants, borders, or standalone specimens. Their striking blooms and evergreen foliage create a year-round focal point in any outdoor setting, clusters, and mass plantings. They also work well as an understory to pine trees.

You can plant them in a container if you have limited space. However, you must find an oversized pot or container to allow the roots to spread after you plant it. Keep it spot in partial shade or with some sun. Put a layer of gravel or sand at the bottom to recreate the well-drained soil Encore Azalea Autumn Royalty prefers. Note, also, that they will need extra winter protection when the roots are not planted in the ground. You’ll need to give it some extra protection in the autumn.

Encore Autumn Royalty Azalea Attracts Wildlife and Pollinators

The Autumn Royalty Azalea is a fantastic choice for attracting pollinators and wildlife to your yard! Its vibrant purple blooms are particularly appealing to butterflies and hummingbirds. Butterflies, such as swallowtails and grey commas, are drawn to the bright colors and nectar-rich flowers2. Hummingbirds are also attracted to the trumpet-shaped blooms, which are perfectly suited for their feeding habits.

Additionally, the dense, dark green foliage provides shelter for various birds and small wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. By planting Autumn Royalty Azaleas, you’ll create a lively and dynamic ecosystem that benefits both your backyard and the local wildlife.

Tayloe’s Lawn Care Services, LLC: Here to Make Your Outdoor Spaces Thrive

With proper care and attention, Autumn Royalty Azaleas can become a stunning highlight in your garden, offering bold and beautiful blooms twice yearly.

We have access to a local NC nursery that grows azalea autumn royalty. With the next appropriate planting season will gladly install the Encore autumn royalty shrub for you,, subject to availability.

If you’re ready to add this vibrant shrub to your garden or need further gardening advice, feel free to ask Tayloe’s Lawn Care Services, LLC, for help.

Author Profile

Deborah Tayloe

Deborah Tayloe is the CEO and co-founder of Tayloe's Lawn Care Services, LLC. She has a B.S.Ed and holds certificates in soil and water management and herbology from accredited programs.