Species

Hydrangea macrophyllaBigleaf Hydrangea

51 other cultivars

shrub

Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Eclipse'

$39.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, widely cultivated for its large, rounded flower heads that change colour based on soil acidity. The species features broad, opposite green leaves and thrives in moist, well-drained soils under partial shade.

'Eclipse' is distinguished by its intense deep purple to nearly black foliage that retains its dark pigmentation throughout the entire growing season without fading in summer heat. The mophead flowers emerge cranberry-red to ruby-red in neutral soils, or amethyst-purple to blue-toned in acidic conditions, often displaying contrasting lighter centres.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking, season-long dark foliage contrast coupled with large, colour-shifting mophead blooms.

Compact growth habit requires minimal maintenance and pruning compared to older cultivars.

Flowers support general beneficial garden insects and native bees.

SpeciesHydrangea macrophyllaBigleaf Hydrangea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

High

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Japan (parent species)

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets (contains cyanogenic glycosides)

Bloom period

Summer – Autumn

In flower about 4 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$39.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, ensuring protection from harsh afternoon sun and strong, salt-laden winds.
Prepare the soil by incorporating rich organic matter to improve moisture retention while ensuring the site drains freely to prevent root rot.
Position the plant in the hole at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot, backfill, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base to retain soil moisture, keeping the mulch clear of the main stems.

Pro Tip

Because this cultivar blooms on both old and new wood, avoid hard pruning late in the season; instead, prune lightly immediately after the main summer flowering finishes to preserve the next season's buds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during hot summer weather, to prevent rapid wilting.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring as new growth begins to emerge.
Ensure adequate air circulation around the foliage to minimise the risk of fungal leaf issues.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, leafless woody stems, as this will remove future flower buds.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely or waterlog, both of which stress the root system.
Avoid planting in locations exposed to direct, harsh afternoon sun which can scorch the dark foliage.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Feature specimen in semi-shaded bordersHigh-contrast foliage plant in courtyard gardensContainer specimen for patios and shaded decksMass planting under tree canopies

Companion Plants

Hostas Heucheras Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea questions

What zones can Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea grow in?

Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea bloom?

Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea typically blooms in summer through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea need full sun?

Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea does best in part shade.