Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata)

The Sky Pencil Holly, also known as Japanese Holly, is an upright columnar evergreen shrub composed of dark green foliage that keeps color year-round and often will form small purple to black berries in the fall if a male is present. Unlike other holly shrubs, the leaves of this Holly are rounded and lack sharp points, making it ideal for an entirely different placement.

Japanese hollies work well on decks, patios, or entryways. Their upright habit makes for a tall accent or privacy screen that makes a bold, formal statement. In addition, they are fast-growing, low maintenance, and free from prickly leaves, which makes you understand why this has become such a popular choice. A fully mature Sky Pencil Holly can reach up to 6-8 feet in height but will remain a narrow 2-3 feet wide, only requiring some light pruning near the top.

Looking for a Sky Pencil with Red tints? Check out the Red Sky Ilex from Southern Living Plants.

Japanese Holly Care

Choosing an appropriate location for your Japanese Holly Sky Pencil will be the most significant determining factor of how well it grows. Avoiding extreme temperatures and planting in full sun to partial sun will help ensure a healthy life. This Holly is cold-hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

While they prefer acidic soil, they tend to adapt well to just about any soil as long as it drains.

Water deeply after planting and continue to water several times weekly for the first few months. After they have established themselves, you can reduce your watering schedule to only exceptionally dry spells.

After planting, add 2 - 3 inches of mulch to the base of the Holly to protect the soil from drying out.

Pruning Your Sky Pencil Holly

Light trimming is often beneficial, especially when they are still young. Trimming helps the holly gain stability and form sturdy stems that will support its future growth. Prune in the winter as the plant will not be actively growing. If you choose to do so, prune the sides and top being sure not to remove more than a third of its growth.

Sky Pencil Holly Companion Plants

A few familiar companions you often find with these shrubs are available here at Plantsbymail.com! Boxwoods, viburnums, and hydrangeas pair together very well in any landscape or as foundational growth, and we have several to choose from.

Here are some of our favorite companion plants!

• Wintergreen Boxwood
• Touch of Gold™ Holly
• Summer Crush™ Hydrangea | Endless Summer