Description
Ilex castaneifolia is an unusual Holly variety, similar in its habit and size to ilex ‘Nellie R Stevens’ but the leaves are larger, and makes a lovely evergreen tree. It has large and thick green leaves which are marginally spiky at the edges, resembling the foliage of Castanea sativa from which it is named.
Sweet Chestnut Holly is a medium to large tree with a distinctively pyramidal shaped crown. The bright red berries appear in small clusters and are produced in abundance in the autumn following the delicate spring flowers. A great choice for high level screening as it produces a definite and dense screen above the fence line and has the benefit of giving year round interest. Awarded Garden Merit.
Like many other Hollies, this tree is tolerant of shade and will thrive on most soils, providing they are well drained.
Awarded of Garden Merit
Mature height: 7-12m