Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil' (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil')

Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil'

Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil' is often used in landscaping to create natural hedges and line driveways and walkways. Its narrow growth form makes the evergreen easy to identify. It also sets the shrub apart from other species in the genus. Its tall, narrow growth is also why the plant is commonly called ‘Sky pencil.’

Scientific classification

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Slow

Growth Rate

Care Guide for Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil'

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil' prefers moderately moist soil and consistent moisture, with moderate drought tolerance once established. Water every 2-3 weeks, avoiding dry conditions. Mainly an outdoor plant, it thrives in well-drained soil to prevent root rot and can be shaped by pruning for landscaping.

Fertilize: Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil' requires minimal fertilizer. Apply a thin layer in early spring and autumn. Use nitrogen-rich compound fertilizer for vibrant growth. Avoid fertilizing in summer heat (above 30℃) to prevent root damage. Insufficient fertilization results in weak growth, while excess can dull leaves.

Pruning: To encourage growth, prune japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil' before early spring, preferably in winter. Remove one-third of old branches each year, along with yellow or diseased leaves. This practice supports vertical growth and flowering. In snowy regions, bundle branches to protect them from ice damage.

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Learn More About Japanese Holly 'Sky Pencil'

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How to Grow and Care

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