Where do you find azaleas that bloom in the fall? Certain varieties such as Encore Azaleas defy the typical spring-only schedule and flaunt their lovely flowers in autumn.

You can find these autumn-blooming beauties amidst the rolling hills and gentle climates of North Carolina. These fall-blooming azaleas add an unexpected flourish to the season’s palette.

But the story doesn’t end in the Tar Heel State. After reading this article, you’ll discover:

• Other regions across the United States where these autumnal wonders thrive
• Public gardens and arboretums that have fall-blooming azaleas
• The different varieties of azaleas that flourish in fall

Azaleas, members of the Rhododendron family, are more than just another pretty face in the garden; they’re a diverse group with a fascinating range of types and blooming seasons.

Typically, azaleas are known to shine in spring. Here, you’ll find them covered in a lot of blooms ranging from soft pastels to deep, vivid colors. This creates a spectacle that’s eagerly anticipated by garden enthusiasts each year.

But then there’s the road less traveled by azaleas—the path of the fall bloomers. These unique varieties, though less common, offer a second round of flowering when much of the garden has begun to wind down.

Imagine the surprise and delight of discovering azaleas in full bloom amidst the autumnal landscape!

Varieties like the Autumn Embers, Autumn Royalty, and Autumn Moonlight are part of a special group known as the Encore Azaleas. These bring a new wave of color just as the rest of the garden is preparing for a quieter season.

In addition to Encore Azaleas, other azaleas can bring vibrant colors to your garden during the autumn season:

Rhododendron ‘April Rose’

This variety is an early bloomer that can withstand cold temperatures as low as -25ºF (-31ºC). It features purplish-red flowers in early to mid-spring and its foliage turns a reddish-bronze in the fall.

Rhododendron ‘Homebush’

This deciduous shrub has beautiful bright pink flowers and eye-catching fall foliage. Its leaves are light green, change color in the fall, and are resistant to mildew.

ReBloom Azaleas

These are designed to flower from spring through fall, providing a continuous display of color. They are also loved for their hardiness and ability to thrive in different climates.

Bloom-A-Thon Azaleas

They start in April and continue to produce flowers in early July, lasting through fall until the first hard frost. This variety is particularly heat tolerant, ensuring a bloom of late summer and fall flowers even in warmer climates.

Rhododendron prunifolium (Plumleaf Azalea)

This native species blooms in the late summer to early fall. It is known for its striking orange to vivid red flowers, which provide a rich source of nectar for pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. Its foliage also offers autumnal interest, turning yellowish to plum in the fall.

Autumnal azaleas—though not as widespread as the spring varieties—have carved out their niche in the gardening world. They are found in a variety of locations such as:

Nurseries and Garden Centers

Begin at your local nurseries and garden centers, particularly those known for their collection of native or unique plant species.

Keep an eye out for labels like ‘Encore Azaleas’ or similar fall-blooming varieties. Staff at these centers are usually quite knowledgeable and can guide you to the azaleas that will offer a beautiful display in the fall.

Public Gardens and Arboretums

Public gardens and arboretums are invaluable resources for plant lovers. They not only display a variety of plants but also serve as educational and conservation centers.

Notable examples include the United States National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., which offers a diverse array of plants, including fall-blooming azaleas.

Another option is the Biltmore Estate Gardens in North Carolina, renowned for their extensive plant collections and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Common States for Fall-Blooming Azaleas

Fall-blooming azaleas are prominent in:

• North Carolina: This state is celebrated for its rich gardening heritage and a climate that supports a wide range of plant life. The temperate conditions here are ideal for nurturing azaleas, including the fall-blooming varieties.
• Georgia: Georgia’s gardening tradition is well-established, with azaleas being a prominent feature in many of its gardens and parks. The state’s climate provides a conducive environment for both traditional and fall-blooming azaleas.
• Pacific Northwest: Known for its lush green landscapes, the Pacific Northwest’s climate is particularly favorable for azaleas. The region’s mild temperatures and adequate rainfall create perfect conditions for fall azaleas to thrive.

Surprising Locations

In the same way azaleas defy the typical spring-time calendar, you’re likely to find them in these unexpected locations:

• Northeastern U.S.: Despite its colder climate, certain areas in the Northeast such as New York and Pennsylvania have successfully cultivated fall-blooming azaleas.
• Midwestern States: States like Ohio and Michigan are seeing an increasing interest in fall-blooming azaleas, adding a splash of color to the traditional fall foliage.

There’s no doubt that azaleas blooming in fall add a touch of color and beauty, just when we start to miss the vibrancy of summer gardens. These azaleas remind us that nature always has a few surprises up her sleeve. And that’s something we should appreciate. Always.

Keep an eye out for these seasonal surprises, whether in your local garden center, a nearby public garden, or during your travels. There’s something special about discovering these fall bloomers, like stumbling upon a secret only shared with those who take the time to look.

But there’s something else. For the travel and nature enthusiasts. Renting an RV for a scenic expedition through the countryside. With an RV, each turn reveals a new view, each stop offers a chance to discover nature’s autumnal secrets.

With an RV from NW Adventure Rentals, you’ll have an opportunity to connect with nature, find joy in the unexpected season blooms, and create lasting memories amidst the fall foliage.