Holly, Sky Pencil #7
Sky Pencil Holly
Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil'
Height: Typically 3–4 feet tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
Spread: Approximately 1.5–2 feet wide
Spacing: Plant 1.5–2 feet apart for a refined, continuous screen
Growth Rate: Slow
Description
Sky Pencil Holly offers a strikingly modern silhouette with its ultra-narrow, columnar habit, making it an ideal accent for small-scale landscapes. Its glossy, dark green leaves form a dense, sculpted shrub that remains compact and manageable in Michigan’s cooler climate. In spring, subtle white blooms briefly adorn the foliage, while the overall evergreen form provides year-round visual interest. Perfect for borders, hedges, or even container plantings, this holly’s tidy, vertical lines add a sophisticated statement without overwhelming your space.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial sun
- Watering: Water regularly after planting to establish deep roots and ensure strong berry set; once established, requires minimal supplemental watering except during extended dry periods
- Mulching: Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to help conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature
- Pruning: Minimal trimming is needed; remove only dead or unruly branches in early spring to maintain its sleek form
- Containers: Performs well in containers when provided with ample drainage and regular care
Sky Pencil Holly is a stunning, low-maintenance evergreen that delivers a sophisticated, vertical accent to your landscape all year long.
