Notice
From March through June, all plants are sent in full leaf and actively growing. It’s normal for them to look a little tired after their journey—some wilt, bent stems, or loosened soil can happen during shipping. Don’t worry! With a good drink of water and a few days to settle in, your plants will bounce right back and start thriving.

Sky Pencil Holly

1 total reviews
Size
Sale price $47.99 Regular price $57.99
Save $10.00
In stock
States Not Serviced: AK, HI, PR
Shipping Height: QTS- 12-14" | 1G - 14-16" | 3G - 2-3' & 3-4'
Zones Open for Shipping: 3-11
Pollinator Friendly Deer Resistant Heat Tolerant
Zone Map
Sky Pencil Holly  hedge
Plant Factory Direct

Sky Pencil Holly

Description

Sky Pencil Holly | Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil' 

Plant Highlights: 

  • Growing zone: 7-10
  • Botanical name: Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil' Holly
  • Foliage color: Green
  • Flowers: Creamy white
  • Fragrance: N/A
  • Plant type: Evergreen shrub
  • Plant height: 8-10' Feet
  • Plant width: 2-3 Feet
  • Growth rate: medium growth rate
  • Environment needs: Sun to part shade
  • Soil needs: Well-drained
  • Water needs: More to establish, moderate after established 
  • Pruning needs: Occasional yearly shaping
  • Resistance: Deer, rabbit, and most insects
  • Grown by: The Plant Factory

 

Additional Highlights:

  • Pollinator Friendly: Yes
  • Deer Resistant: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: No
  • Reblooming: No
  • Cold and Heat Tolerant: Yes

Sky Pencil Holly, or Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil', is an elegant evergreen shrub that brings a touch of vertical charm to any garden. Its sleek, upright form and glossy dark green leaves make it a standout among holly varieties, perfect for gardeners of all ages. elegant presence that stands out in both formal and contemporary garden designs.

Sky Pencil Holly is known for its tall, narrow growth reaching up to 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) and a width of only 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters). Its dense foliage creates an impressive column, making it perfect for framing entrances, lining pathways, or adding height to garden beds. In spring, small white flowers appear followed by black berries in the fall, adding subtle seasonal interest. 

Hardy, low-maintenance, and elegant - Sky Pencil Holly is perfect for gardeners of all ages. Thriving in well-draining soil with full to partial sun exposure, this shrub brings year-round beauty to any landscape. Regular watering during the initial growth period and strategic pruning throughout the growing season will ensure healthy growth and an elegant form. With annual fertilization and the use of Moisture Maxx non-ionic wetting agent and SR-18-510 slow release fertilizer, your Sky Pencil Holly will be off to a great start and stay healthy all season long.

As gardeners of all ages, you can enhance your landscape design with the addition of Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil' Holly. This distinctive holly boasts elegant vertical growth that showcases nature's artistry and brings refinement to any space. With proper maintenance and selection of complementary plants, this variety will be sure to capture admiration throughout the year.

Care:

Our processing time is usually 1-3 days after receiving your order. Orders taken after 4:00 pm on Wednesday through Sunday will be shipped the following Monday.

Shipping:

The Plant Factory, Inc. offers the very best shipping processes to ensure quick, safe, and near-perfect results every time. Cold and heat may deter your order temporarily until it is safe to receive and plant your plants/trees in your area. At our discretion, we will hold order till the threat is gone ensuring you with the healthiest-viable product ordered.

Summer/Winter Shipping Restrictions – Summer above 95 degrees | Winter - Below 34 degrees

Just a heads up! We share pictures and videos on our site to showcase our products and highlight the quality of our growing process. However, depending on the season you purchase, you can receive a plant that is smaller or larger than what is presented. There's a chance you might see a plant blooming like the one on our site, but it's not guaranteed. We often trim off blooms since they don't travel well. When you buy our plants, think of it as a wonderful investment in your future garden! Enjoy the journey of nurturing them to their fullest potential.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sky Pencil Holly and how big does it get?

It’s a narrow, upright evergreen shrub, also known as Sky Pencil Japanese holly, valued for its columnar shape and dense green foliage. Mature plants typically reach about 6–10 feet tall and only 2–3 feet wide, making them ideal for tight spaces. With good light and well-drained soil, it stays naturally tidy with minimal shaping.

How fast is the Sky Pencil Holly growth rate?

Growth is generally considered medium, with the fastest gains happening once roots are established. Steady moisture during the first season, followed by moderate watering, helps support consistent growth. Full sun to part shade and well-drained soil also make a noticeable difference in vigor.

How do you care for Sky Pencil Holly in the landscape?

Plant in well-drained soil and provide sun to part shade for the best form and foliage density. Water more frequently while it establishes, then switch to moderate watering as it matures. Light annual shaping is usually enough, and it’s commonly chosen among deer resistant shrubs because it resists deer and rabbits.