Rhododendron - Encore Azalea® Autumn Moonlight

Encore Azalea® ‘Autumn Moonlight’ (Rhododendron hybrid)

A Refined, Reblooming Shrub with Pure White, Semi-Double Blooms and a Soft Yellow Throat

The Encore Azalea ‘Autumn Moonlight’ is an elegant evergreen shrub prized for its pure white, semi-double flowers accented by a soft, yellow-dusted throat. Blooming heavily in spring and reblooming through summer and fall, this azalea provides long-lasting color and a luminous presence in the landscape. Its naturally compact, rounded growth habit and glossy green foliage make it an exceptional choice for adding timeless beauty and extended seasonal interest to home gardens.

Key Features:

• Extended Bloom Season: Produces abundant clusters of pure white, semi-double flowers with a delicate yellow-dusted throat in spring, with repeat blooms through summer and fall.

• Cold Hardy & Dependable: Known for reliable reblooming and strong cold tolerance, performing consistently year after year.

• Evergreen Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round structure and a clean backdrop for bright white blooms.

• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

• Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Mature Size:

• Height: 4–5 feet

• Spread: 4–5 feet

• Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Hardiness Zones:

• Zones: 6–10

Chill Hours:

• Moderate (requires winter chill for optimal spring flowering)

Care Instructions:

• Sunlight: Prefers partial shade but tolerates more sun than traditional azaleas; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.

• Soil: Thrives in well-drained, acidic soil enriched with organic matter.

• Watering: Water consistently, especially during establishment and dry periods. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Pruning: Prune lightly immediately after spring bloom if needed; minimal pruning helps preserve reblooming cycles.

• Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect shallow root systems.

Landscape Uses:

• Ideal for foundation plantings, shrub borders, and mixed landscape beds.

• Excellent as a specimen plant or planted in groups for a clean, elegant display.

• Performs beautifully in containers and accent plantings.

• Pairs well with camellias, gardenias, hydrangeas, and other shade-loving shrubs.

• Adds bright contrast, extended seasonal color, and strong curb appeal to residential landscapes.

The Encore Azalea ‘Autumn Moonlight’ is a standout reblooming shrub that offers luminous white blooms, refined detail, and easy care. Whether used as a focal point, mass planting, or container accent, this azalea brings graceful beauty and dependable color from spring through fall.