shrub RHS Award

Autumn Royalty Azalea

Rhododendron 'Conlea'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

54 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Encore Azaleas are revolutionary hybrid rhododendrons that provide multiple seasons of bloom, unlike traditional azaleas which bloom only once in spring. They maintain their evergreen foliage year-round. 'Autumn Royalty' (Conlea) is a robust, larger variety known for its stunning, large, single-form purple flowers. It is notably heat tolerant and was named Azalea of the Year by the American Rhododendron Society.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Autumn Royalty provides a spectacular, long-lasting show of rich purple flowers, creating a stunning focal point in the landscape. Its robust size and evergreen foliage make it an excellent structural plant.

It can be used to create a beautiful, low-maintenance informal hedge or screen that provides color for three seasons. Its size makes it a great choice for anchoring foundation plantings.

The abundant flowers are a magnet for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, providing them with a reliable nectar source from spring through fall.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with acidic soil and good morning sun.
Dig a hole that is wide and shallow, not deep.
Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or pine bark fines.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is above the soil line.
Backfill with the amended soil, creating a slight mound.
Water deeply and apply an acidic mulch like pine straw.

Pro Tip

For the most prolific rebloom, ensure the plant receives at least six hours of sun and is watered consistently during summer.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant high to ensure excellent drainage for the shallow roots.
Water deeply and regularly, especially in the first year and during droughts.
Use an acidic fertilizer formulated for azaleas after the spring bloom.
Maintain a consistent layer of mulch to protect roots and retain moisture.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy clay or alkaline soil.
Avoid deep cultivation near the plant's base.
Don't prune after June, or you will cut off the summer and fall flower buds.
Don't allow the plant to become drought-stressed.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning flowering specimenBold foundation plantingColorful informal hedge

Companion Plants

Kalmia latifolia Pieris japonica Acer palmatum Helleborus orientalis Carex oshimensis 'Evergold'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Royalty Azalea questions

What zones can Autumn Royalty Azalea grow in?

Autumn Royalty Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Autumn Royalty Azalea deer resistant?

Yes — Autumn Royalty Azalea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Royalty Azalea bloom?

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

Does Autumn Royalty Azalea need full sun?

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