About First Editions® Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea Bare Root Hydrangea Bush

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailmacseven’ PP34,544
Brand: First Editions® | Type: Reblooming Bigleaf Hydrangea | Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9

💜 Nearly black foliage and spectacular cranberry or amethyst flowers—Eclipse® brings a little drama to the hydrangea garden.

First Editions® Eclipse® is a remarkable bigleaf hydrangea featuring deep purple, almost black leaves that hold their rich color throughout the growing season, even in warmer climates. Large, rounded mophead flowers appear in shades of cranberry red or amethyst purple, creating a striking contrast against the dark foliage.

🌸 Flower & Garden Details

Flower Color: Cranberry red or amethyst purple, depending on soil chemistry
Flower Form: Large, rounded mophead clusters
Bloom Season: Summer into fall, with reblooming
Foliage: Deep purple to nearly black
Habit: Compact, rounded and mounded
Mature Size: Approximately 3–5 feet tall and wide
Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9
Bloom Wood: Old and new wood
Cut Flower: Excellent fresh or dried
Best Uses: Cottage gardens, mixed borders, foundation plantings, decorative containers and cutting gardens

💜 A Hydrangea That Changed the Rules

Introduced in 2024, Eclipse® is celebrated as the first true dark-leaf mophead hydrangea, developed through more than eight years of selection and testing.

Unlike some purple-leaf hydrangeas that turn green during summer heat, Eclipse® maintains its dramatic dark foliage throughout the season. Its flowers add another layer of interest, developing cranberry tones in alkaline soils and amethyst coloring in acidic conditions.

💛 Why Grace Rose Farm Loves It

We love a plant that makes everything around it look even more beautiful.

The nearly black foliage of Eclipse® creates an incredible backdrop for blush, peach and cream roses, while its jewel-toned flowers add a sophisticated touch to the cutting garden. Even when it isn't flowering, Eclipse® brings rich color and texture to the landscape.

It's a hydrangea we'd choose just as much for its leaves as its flowers.

🌿 Planting & Care

Plant your bare root hydrangea in rich, well-drained soil with morning sun and afternoon shade. Spread the roots naturally, plant at the original growing depth and water thoroughly. Keep soil consistently moist while establishing.

Eclipse® reblooms on old and new wood, so little pruning is necessary. Remove winter-damaged stems after new growth appears in spring, and avoid fall pruning to preserve next year's early flower buds.