Rhododendron x hybrida 'Conlee'
shrub

Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea

Rhododendron x hybrida 'Conlee'

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact evergreen azalea that is part of the Encore series, known for its ability to bloom multiple times a year. It has small, glossy green leaves that may take on a purplish cast in winter.

'Conlee', sold as Encore Autumn Amethyst, is an evergreen azalea with single purple flowers and green, non-variegated foliage. It blooms in spring and repeats in summer and fall, reaching about 48 inches tall and 48 inches wide. Foliage takes on purple tones in winter.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental Uses'Conlee', sold as Encore Autumn Amethyst, is an evergreen azalea with single purple flowers and green, non-variegated foliage. It blooms in spring and repeats in summer and fall, reaching about 48 inches tall and 48 inches wide. Foliage takes on purple tones in winter.
Practical UsesIts compact, mounding habit is perfect for foundation plantings, mixed borders, and even large containers where its multi-season display can be appreciated up close.
Ecological BenefitsThe successive blooms provide a continuous nectar source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing 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

48"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

J
F
M
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M
J
J
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In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with acidic, well-drained soil and filtered sun.
  2. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
  3. Amend soil with organic matter like compost or pine bark.
  4. Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
  5. Backfill and water thoroughly.
  6. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of pine straw or bark mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade for best performance and flower longevity.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Maintain acidic soil conditions (pH 4.5-6.0).
  • Water consistently, especially in summer heat, to support reblooming.
  • Mulch well to protect the shallow root system.
  • Fertilize with an acid-forming fertilizer after the spring bloom.

Don't

  • Do not plant too deep; azaleas are shallow-rooted.
  • Do not let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
  • Avoid using lime or fresh manure around the plant.
  • Do not prune late in the season, as this will remove fall flower buds.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Multi-season blooming foundation plantColorful accent in mixed bordersMass planting for waves of color

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea questions

What zones can Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea grow in?

Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea deer resistant?

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

When does Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea bloom?

Conlee Autumn Amethyst 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 Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Conlee Autumn Amethyst Azalea with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.