Ilex crenata Sky Pencil

Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’ is one of the most recognizable Japanese hollies, prized for its exceptionally narrow, upright habit. Unlike traditional hollies, it forms a tight vertical column of dark green evergreen foliage without spreading, making it ideal for tight spaces and modern designs. It performs best in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, acidic soil and grows at a slow to moderate rate. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, it typically reaches 6–10 feet tall while remaining just 2–3 feet wide.