First Editions® Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea

First Editions® Eclipse® is a bigleaf mophead hydrangea recognized for very dark purple leaves and cranberry or amethyst flower heads. Its mounded form reaches about 3–5 feet tall and wide, making room for it as a focal shrub or a large container specimen ([cultivar profile](https://firsteditionsplants.com/product/eclipse-bigleaf-hydrangea/)). ## Selection and placement The cultivar is Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bailmacseven' (U.S. plant patent PP 34,544, issued in 2022; [patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP34544P2/en)). The nearly black-purple foliage holds its color, while bloom shades vary from cranberry to amethyst. The breeder lists Zones 5–9 and recommends morning sun with afternoon shade. Rich, well-drained loam supports it; water deeply at the base when the soil begins drying ([growing guide](https://firsteditionsplants.com/resource/meet-eclipse-bigleaf-hydrangea-dark-leaf-vivid-blooms/)). ## Seasonal display Eclipse® can flower on both old and new wood, extending bloom through the season. The dark leaves give summer borders a strong color contrast, and the cultivar is also suitable for cut flowers or a substantial decorative pot. ## Maintenance After new leaves emerge in spring, remove only stems that failed over winter. Deadhead fading flower heads through mid-fall if desired. Avoid fall pruning because it can remove buds for the following season.