• Sky Pencil Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil')
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Photo Courtesy of Bailey Nurseries

Japanese Holly | Sky Pencil

Japanese Holly | Sky Pencil

Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil'

Choosing a size

Tap a size to select it. Size is the nursery pot your plant ships in; bigger pots mean an older plant that fills in faster.

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$125.99 USD
$125.99 USD
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  • Ships in 2–4 business days
  • Carefully packed in its nursery pot
  • Arrived damaged? Let us know within 48 hours
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About This Plant

Sky Pencil Japanese Holly is a very narrow, upright evergreen that grows tall but stays slim. Its small, glossy dark green leaves and pencil-like shape make it perfect for tight spaces, entryways and containers. A striking vertical accent that's deer resistant.

Plant Details
Hardiness Zone 5-8
Sunlight Part Sun
Mature Size 6-8 ft tall × 1-2 ft wide
Bloom Color Inconspicuous
Maintenance Low
Drought Tolerant Yes
Deer & Rabbit Tolerant Yes
Pollinator Friendly No
Container Friendly No
Pet Safe No
Not pet safe: this plant is listed as toxic to dogs and/or cats by the ASPCA. Plant it where pets can't reach it, and contact your vet if your pet eats any part of it.
Planting & Care

How to Plant

Choose a spot with 3–6 hours of sun, ideally morning sun. Dig a hole 2–3 times as wide as the pot but no deeper, with the top of the root ball slightly above ground level. Loosen circling roots and backfill with the native soil. Prefers acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water deeply after planting and add 2–3 in of mulch, keeping it off the stems. Hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Watering & Feeding

Water deeply 1–2 times a week for the first season, about 1 in per week. Once established, it's drought tolerant and only needs water during long dry spells. Feed in spring with a fertilizer for acid-loving plants.

Pruning & Seasonal Care

Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove dead or damaged branches any time. Mulch in late fall to protect roots through the first winter.