First Editions® Straight & Narrow® Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata PIIIC-I)
Ilex crenata 'Straight & Narrow' is a cultivar of Japanese Holly. Here are its key features and care tips:
Characteristics:
Form: 'Straight & Narrow' is characterized by its narrow, columnar growth habit. It has an upright form with densely packed branches, giving it a formal appearance.
Foliage: The foliage consists of small, glossy, dark green leaves that are similar in appearance to those of boxwood. The leaves provide year-round interest to the plant.
Size: This cultivar typically reaches a height of 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3 meters) and a width of 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) at maturity. Its compact size makes it suitable for narrow spaces, hedges, or as a vertical accent in the landscape.
Berries: Female plants may produce small black berries in fall, adding seasonal interest to the plant.
Cultural Requirements:
Sunlight: Plant 'Straight & Narrow' in a location that receives full to partial sunlight. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Soil: Ensure well-draining soil with good fertility. Japanese Holly prefers moist, acidic to slightly alkaline soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.
Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during the establishment period after planting. Once established, 'Straight & Narrow' is relatively drought tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during 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.
Ilex crenata 'Straight & Narrow' is valued for its narrow, upright form and low maintenance requirements. It's suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen in garden borders, foundation plantings, or containers. With its formal appearance and year-round interest, it adds structure and texture to the landscape.
ATTENTION: Thank you for your interest in our plants! We want to let you know that each plant is unique and may vary slightly in appearance from the photos you see on our website. This is because plants are living organisms that are influenced by many factors, including genetics, environment, and growing conditions. While we make every effort to provide accurate descriptions and photos of our plants, we cannot guarantee that your plant will look exactly the same as the one in the photo. However, we can assure you that we only sell healthy, high-quality plants that are carefully selected and packaged for safe delivery. If you have any questions or concerns about your plant, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your understanding!