Design

Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea: An Amazing New Hydrangea with Black Leaves

Nope, we didn’t color edit that photo—it’s a dark-leaved hydrangea

By Fine Gardening editors Fine Gardening – Issue 215
Eclipse bigleaf hydrangea
Courtesy of Bailey Nurseries

There are a bazillion bigleaf hydrangeas out there. So when a new one comes out, it really needs to stand out from the crowd. Meet Eclipse® bigleaf hydrangea—a unique selection with dark purple leaves that hold their color throughout the gardening season. In summer the dramatic foliage is accompanied by striking cranberry blooms with white centers.

Eclipse bigleaf hydrangea
Photo by Tracy Walsh Photo, Courtesy of Bailey Nurseries

black leaves of eclipse hydrangea
Courtesy of Bailey Nurseries

Growers are also reporting that this baby is resistant to powdery mildew and Cercospora leaf spot. Just imagine all the great combinations you can create with that foliage in a container or in the landscape.

Eclipse® bigleaf hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailmacseven’

Zones: 5–9

Size: 3 to 5 feet tall and wide

Conditions: Partial shade; average, well-drained soil

Native range: China, Japan, Korea

Sources:

• Nature Hills Nursery, Omaha, NE; 402-934-8116; naturehills.com

• Wilson Bros Gardens, McDonough, GA; 770-573-1778; wilsonbrosgardens.com

 

More on growing hydrangeas:

Guide to Growing Bigleaf Hydrangeas

When to Prune Bigleaf Hydrangeas?

Do Deer Eat Hydrangeas?

Adjusting soil pH for Hydrangeas

 

See more cool plants:

Lots more Super Cool Plants

Plants with Black Foliage

The Best of the Newer Hydrangeas

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