Plant Details

• Botanical NameIlex Crenta 'sky Pencil' (commonly listed as Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil')
• Common NameIlex Crenta 'sky Pencil' (Japanese holly)
• Size & Growth6–10 ft tall, 1.5–3 ft wide; naturally narrow, columnar form
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 5–9 (wind protection recommended in colder zones)
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; small, glossy, spineless dark‑green leaves
• Bloom TimeLate spring; tiny white flowers; black berries in fall if pollinated by a male Ilex crenata
• Growth RateSlow to moderate (approximately 6–12 inches per year under good conditions)
• Light RequirementsFull sun to part shade; best density in sun with light afternoon shade in hot climates
• Attracts PollinatorsModestly; small spring flowers can draw bees and small pollinators
• Indoor FriendlyNot recommended as a houseplant; thrives outdoors (container culture outdoors is ideal)
• Container FriendlyExcellent for pots and urns; choose deep, well‑drained containers and winter‑protect in cold regions
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer‑resistant; browsing is uncommon but possible under pressure
• Pet WarningFoliage/berries may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested; plant away from pets and children
• FragrantNot notably fragrant (flowers are small and subtle)
• Cut FlowerPrimarily a foliage accent; vertical stems add structure to arrangements
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Azalea, Camellia, Pieris, Japanese maple, Nandina, dwarf conifers, Hydrangea, Heuchera, Hosta, Hakonechloa

Note: For berry set, a nearby male Ilex crenata cultivar is required; 'Sky Pencil' is typically female.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant straight at the same depth as in the nursery pot; loosen circling roots; space 18–36 in depending on hedge density; water in thoroughly to settle soil.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist the first growing season; about 1 in of water weekly. Once established, water during dry spells—avoid both drought stress and soggy soil.
• Soil TypeWell‑drained, acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5) preferred; amend heavy or alkaline soils with compost/peat. Use an ericaceous mix for containers.
• HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is fine; protect from desiccating winter winds, especially in exposed sites and containers.
• Pruning InstructionsLightly shear in late winter or early spring to maintain column; tip‑pinch to thicken. Avoid cutting into old wood; remove any splaying branches after heavy snow.
• Winter CareMulch 2–3 in, water well before freeze, and use burlap/windscreens in zones 5–6. For pots, insulate or move to a sheltered spot to protect roots.
• Planting DepthSet crown level with surrounding soil; do not bury the trunk flare. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem.
• FertilizationFeed in early spring with a slow‑release, acid‑forming fertilizer (e.g., holly/azalea type). Treat chlorosis with chelated iron; avoid late‑season nitrogen.
• Special CareStake if needed to keep perfectly vertical; monitor for spider mites/scale; ensure sharp drainage to prevent root rot; plant a male Ilex crenata nearby for berries.

Tip: For containers, choose a pot at least 16–20 in wide with multiple drain holes and elevate slightly for free drainage.