Hydrangea macrophylla Eclipse

The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Eclipse' is a hydrangea that genuinely stands out with its unique colours and resistance to cold and diseases. The bush has very dark foliage throughout the summer, with a chocolate-purple colour that perfectly highlights its bright flowers, red with white centres. This recent variety has a reasonably compact, nicely rounded habit and a generous summer flowering. Plant it in the garden or a large pot on the terrace, in the non-burning sun or partial shade, in rich, fresh, non-limestone soil.

The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Eclipse' is a recent American creation, born in Georgia at Bailey Nurseries around 1977. This variety requires little maintenance; it can withstand at least -20°C (1°F). However, it should be grown in acidic to slightly acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 6.0) and enriched with compost, remaining slightly moist even in summer. Like all hydrangeas, this deciduous shrub belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family.

This 'Eclipse' hydrangea has a rounded and branched habit, as wide as it is tall, of about 1.20 m (4ft) in all directions. Its leaves have a remarkable colour throughout the growing season, in shades of purple, dark brown, blackish purple, and very dark. They are opposite on the branches, ovate with a tapered tip, dentate at the edges, and strongly veined. This variety blooms from July, more or less early, depending on the climate. Its hemispherical flower heads are composed of numerous decorative sterile florets. Their colour varies from raspberry red to purplish red around a white to greenish centre, depending on the soil and the maturity of the flowers. A flowering that wonderfully contrasts with the foliage. Hydrangeas can live for at least 50 years.

The ' Eclipse' Hydrangea has a unique charm; it fascinates with the richness and brilliance of its colours. Its association with white or blue flower varieties such as 'Blue Wave' and 'Shooting Star', for example, is particularly successful, as the colours complement each other. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening up the north side of houses. This one will thrive in a non-burning east or west exposure, in flower beds and hedges. This variety is well suited for container gardening, which can be placed on the terrace in beautiful pottery or near the entrance. Also, pair it with Fuchsia magellanica, annual impatiens and foxgloves. Or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their magnificent flowering in the garden or the house for a long time.