Ilex aquifolium ‘Castaneifolia’, also known as the chestnut-leaved holly, is an ornamental cultivar of evergreen holly characterized by large, long, and elongated leaves, with a shape resembling that of Castanea (chestnut), hence the name.

It is a plant particularly valued for its glossy, dark, leathery foliage, and for its decorative red berries, which are present from autumn to winter.

Compared to the common holly, Ilex aquifolium ‘Castaneifolia’ has fewer spines or is sometimes completely spine-free on the leaf margins, making it more suitable for gardens frequented by children or pets. Its compact form, upright habit, and evergreen foliage make it ideal as a specimen plant, ornamental hedge, or border plant in formal gardens.

Like all holly varieties, it is dioecious: only female plants produce berries, but a male specimen nearby is required for pollination.

→ Discover Ilex m. Nellie Stevens with faster growth