Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3 Feet

Mature Spread

3.5 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 10

Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea (Rhododendron x ‘Autumn Lilac’) is a compact, evergreen azalea that brings vibrant color and pollinator-friendly blooms to any garden. This Encore® variety produces bright purple, two-inch flowers throughout the growing season, with a final spectacular flush in fall. Its repeat blooming habit provides essential nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a beneficial addition to pollinator gardens.

Evergreen foliage maintains year-round interest, while the compact size—3 feet tall by 3.5 feet wide—makes it perfect for small spaces, under windows, alongside entryways, or among perennial borders. Autumn Lilac also thrives in containers, creating a striking focal point with its vivid purple flowers.

Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea Care

Plant in part shade to full sun in well-drained, average garden soil. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide, backfill, water thoroughly, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water regularly during the first year while the plant establishes. Fertilize in early spring using a granular fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid heavy pruning; if trimming is necessary, do so immediately after the spring bloom to maintain the natural shape.

Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea Growth & Spacing

Autumn Lilac grows to approximately 3 feet tall and 3.5 feet wide. When planting with other shrubs or vigorous perennials, leave at least 2 feet of space around each plant. For clusters or groupings, spacing of 1.5 feet center-to-center is suitable. When planting near foundations, ensure the plant is positioned to receive adequate rainfall. For container plantings, select a frost-proof pot at least 16 inches wide with 2–3 gallons of soil to allow healthy growth.

Why Grow Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea?

• Pollinator-friendly – repeat blooms provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects

• Compact and versatile – perfect for small gardens, borders, foundations, or container planting

• Evergreen foliage – provides year-round color and structure

• Vibrant seasonal blooms – bright purple flowers from spring through fall

• Sun and cold tolerant – performs well in sunny locations and withstands winter temperatures

Autumn Lilac Encore Azalea is an easy-care, versatile, and pollinator-friendly shrub that adds multi-season color and structure to any landscape, making it a standout choice for small gardens, foundation plantings, and container displays.