Azalea 'Autumn Twist'
Rhododendron 'Conlep'Azalea ‘Autumn Twist’ is a vibrant reblooming variety from the Encore Azalea series, beloved for its eye-catching, bi-color blooms. Its large, funnel-shaped flowers feature a striking mix of soft lavender-pink and white petals, many adorned with bold magenta striping or solid purple coloring. These unique blossoms add dynamic color to the landscape and often vary slightly from flower to flower, offering a whimsical, painterly effect.
This azalea is prized for its extended blooming season, flourishing in spring, with repeat flushes in summer and again in fall until frost. Unlike traditional azaleas that bloom only once, ‘Autumn Twist’ provides months of vibrant color, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking long-lasting seasonal interest. Its evergreen foliage remains a rich, glossy green throughout the year, contributing to its year-round appeal.
Compact and mounded in shape, ‘Autumn Twist’ typically reaches 4 to 5 feet in height and about 3 to 4 feet in width. This manageable size makes it a great fit for foundation plantings, mixed borders, or even large patio containers. Whether used as a feature plant or as part of a mass planting, it adds structure and reliable color across multiple seasons.
With good sun exposure and well-drained, acidic soil, this variety is easy to care for and performs well in a wide range of climates, from USDA Zones 6 through 10. Its adaptability, combined with pest resistance and reblooming habit, makes ‘Autumn Twist’ a standout azalea for both new and experienced gardeners.
Planting: Place in full sun to partial shade, ideally providing 4–6 hours of morning sun (shade in hottest climates). Use well-drained, slightly acidic soil; amend clay soils with organic matter to enhance drainage and shelter from cold winds.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist in the first season, once established, water during dry periods but avoid saturation.
Pruning: Lightly prune after spring bloom to shape and encourage a summer/fall rebloom. Avoid pruning after August to allow bud formation for fall flowers
Pest & Disease Control: This cultivar is heat-hardy and lace-bug resistant.
Soil Tips: Prefers slightly acidic, organic-rich, well-drained soil. Mulch annually to conserve soil moisture and protect roots in winter. Avoid alkaline or overly wet ground.
