Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’
Sky Pencil Japanese Holly
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 1 to 2 feet
- Flower color
- Inconspicuous; small white flowers
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; minimal pruning required to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds, particularly for the small black berries
About this plant
Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil' is a distinctive evergreen shrub known for its tall, narrow, columnar form, making it a popular choice for adding vertical interest to gardens. The foliage is composed of small, dark green leaves that are glossy and densely packed along the upright branches. This elegant, sculptural plant maintains its shape naturally, requiring minimal pruning, and it provides year-round structure to borders, containers, or as a bold focal point in the landscape.
'Sky Pencil' is also an excellent choice for formal gardens, where its slim profile can be used to frame entrances or create a living screen. Its exceptionally narrow footprint also makes it ideal for small gardens and tight spaces where broader shrubs would overwhelm the planting.
Works well in
Formal Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Bird Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Daphne · Pearlbush · Bluestars · Rock cress · Pampas Grass · Pasque flower
Design tip
Use ‘Sky Pencil’ to introduce strong vertical structure without taking up much horizontal space. Its naturally narrow, columnar form works especially well for framing entrances, creating a living screen, or adding a sculptural accent where garden space is limited.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
