Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil')

Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil', commonly known as Sky Pencil Holly, is a narrow, columnar evergreen shrub prized for its unique vertical growth habit and dense, dark green foliage. Here are its key features and care tips:

Characteristics:

Form: Sky Pencil Holly has a distinctive upright, columnar growth habit, with tightly packed branches that create a narrow, pencil-like silhouette. It maintains its form without requiring extensive pruning, making it ideal for narrow spaces, borders, or as a vertical accent in the landscape.

Foliage: The foliage consists of small, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval to lance-shaped in appearance. The leaves provide year-round interest and texture to the plant.

Size: Sky Pencil Holly typically reaches a mature height of 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) and a width of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters). Its compact size and slender form make it suitable for smaller gardens or as a specimen plant in mixed borders.

Bloom: Inconspicuous white flowers may appear in spring, followed by small black berries on female plants in fall. The berries provide additional ornamental interest and may attract birds to the garden.

Enviromental Requirements:

Sunlight: Plant Sky Pencil Holly in a location that receives full to partial sunlight. While it can tolerate some shade, it typically develops its best form and density in full sun.

Soil: Ensure well-draining soil with good fertility. Sky Pencil Holly prefers moist, loamy soil but can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.

Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during the establishment period after planting. Once established, Sky Pencil Holly is relatively drought tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is generally required to maintain its columnar form. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots. Keep the mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Sky Pencil Holly is valued for its elegant form, low maintenance requirements, and versatility in landscaping. With its slender, upright growth habit and evergreen foliage, it adds year-round interest and structure to garden spaces.