Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

95 other cultivars

shrub

Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea

Rhododendron x hybrida 'Mootum'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhododendron is a diverse genus of acid-loving woody shrubs characterized by shallow, fibrous root systems and terminal flower buds. These plants require highly organic, well-drained soils and filtered light to prevent root rot and leaf scorch.

'Mootum', sold as Encore Autumn Moonlight, is an evergreen azalea with semi-double white flowers and light green, non-variegated foliage. It blooms in spring and repeats in summer and fall, reaching about 60 inches tall and 48 inches wide.

Uses & Benefits:

Functions well as a compact, low-maintenance foundation plant or low hedge in acidic soils.

Provides nectar for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds throughout the extended blooming season.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate; keep evenly moist while establishing

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Horticultural hybrid

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with acidic, organically rich soil that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter or construct raised beds to ensure excellent drainage.
Plant the root ball slightly above the surrounding soil grade to protect the shallow root system from waterlogging.
Apply a thick layer of pine bark or pine needle mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Prune only immediately after the spring bloom flush; late-season pruning removes the emerging buds required for subsequent flowering cycles.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry summer periods.
Apply a specialized slow-release acidic fertilizer once annually in early spring.
Mulch annually to protect the shallow, fibrous root system.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, unamended clay or poorly drained areas.
Do not prune late in the season or cut back into old, bare wood.
Do not plant near walnut trees to avoid toxic juglone exposure.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation plantingMass plantingHedges and screensMixed bordersContainers

Companion Plants

Polystichum acrostichoides Hosta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea questions

What zones can Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea grow in?

Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea bloom?

Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea need full sun?

Encore Autumn Moonlight Azalea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.