Traditional azaleas, which include both deciduous and evergreen species, typically exhibit a single, spectacular bloom cycle in the spring. Their growth habit is often more open and irregular, with some species capable of growing into large, woody shrubs over many years. In contrast, Encore Azaleas are a specific group of hybrid evergreen azaleas bred for a different growth pattern. They are generally more compact, dense, and well-branched, making them suited for modern landscaping where a neater, more controlled form is desired. This controlled habit is a result of selective breeding to create a plant that flowers profusely multiple times a year without becoming overly leggy.
This is the most significant difference from a horticultural perspective. Traditional azaleas are photoperiodic, meaning their bloom trigger is primarily dependent on day length. They set their flower buds in the late summer and fall for a single, explosive display the following spring. Once this spring bloom is finished, they do not flower again that year. Encore Azaleas, however, are the first azalea variety bred to break this cycle. They are not solely photoperiodic. Their genetics allow them to set buds on both old and new wood. This enables them to produce their initial major flush of flowers in the spring alongside traditional varieties, but then they continue to sporadically produce new growth and flower buds throughout the summer and into the fall, offering multiple bloom cycles until the first frost.
While both types prefer dappled shade or morning sun, Encore Azaleas have been specifically selected for increased tolerance to sun exposure. Most traditional azaleas suffer from leaf scorch and stress when planted in full afternoon sun. Encore varieties can generally tolerate more sun (approximately 4-6 hours of direct sunlight), which contributes to their vigor and ability to produce new growth for subsequent blooms. This increased sun tolerance also expands the potential planting locations in a garden, making them more versatile than many traditional azalea varieties, which are often relegated to more protected, shaded beds.
The foliage of these plants also presents subtle differences. Many traditional evergreen azaleas have larger, often more textured leaves that can sometimes appear slightly fuzzy. The leaves of Encore Azaleas tend to be smaller, glossier, and more leathery in texture. This thicker leaf structure is part of the reason for their improved sun and heat tolerance, as it helps reduce water loss through transpiration. In terms of winter hardiness, both types have cultivars rated for various zones, but many Encore Azaleas are bred for resilience in a wider range of climates, though they are not reliably hardy in the coldest zones where some deciduous traditional azaleas thrive.
