Encore Azaleas®
Encore Azaleas changed the game for azalea lovers. While traditional azaleas put on a single spring show and call it quits, Encore varieties bloom in spring, take a brief rest, then rebloom through summer and into fall. That's up to nine months of flowers in warmer climates.
Developed by Louisiana plantsman Robert "Buddy" Lee through decades of traditional breeding, the Encore series now includes over 30 varieties ranging from compact 2-foot shrubs to 5-foot specimens. Colors span pure white through every shade of pink, coral, red, and purple, with single and double flower forms available.
These evergreen shrubs thrive in zones 6-10, handling more sun than traditional azaleas while maintaining the lush foliage you expect. Plant them in acidic, well-drained soil with morning sun and afternoon shade for best performance. Once established, they require minimal care beyond occasional pruning after spring bloom.