The Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex) stands out with its densely packed, dark green leaves and an elegantly narrow, columnar shape that adds vertical interest to any landscape. This low-maintenance evergreen tree requires little to no pruning to keep its upright form, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking minimal upkeep. It reaches a mature height of 6-8 feet and maintains a slim profile at just 2-3 feet wide. Perfectly suited for narrow spaces, it can be used along tight pathways, fences, as a slender hedge, or as a singular ornamental feature in your garden. When planted in groups, it creates an effective, though short, privacy screen. This versatile shrub is hardy in USDA Zones 6-9, ensuring it can thrive in a wide range of climates. For those living in areas below its hardiness zone, planting it in containers is a practical solution that allows for indoor protection during colder months. Each Sky Pencil Holly comes in a 2.5-Gallon container, ready to be a part of your garden. Watering needs are moderate, aiming for a balance that keeps the soil moist but well-drained to support its growth and health.
Evergreen shrub with narrow vertical growth habit
Mature size: 6-8 feet H x 24-36 inches W
Outdoor/landscape hardy USDA Zones: 6 - 9 (below zone 6 this plant should be grown in containers/planters that can be moved indoors during the winter)
Sun exposure: full sun to part shade
Uses: container, foundation, hedge, screen
Planting/fertilizing: use well-draining garden soil mixed with your native soil to backfill the hole; to maximize growth, apply a slow-released slightly acidic fertilizer each Spring
Average shipped plant size: 24-36 inches tall X 8-12 inches wide
Ships from Alabama gulf coast - customers beyond the southeastern United States should consider placing orders from early Fall to mid-late Spring to avoid heat damage during transit
If you are working on a big landscape project, consider ordering 1-2 plants to ensure they meet your specifications before placing an order for your entire project
