Ilex Crenata 'Sky Pencil' (Japanese Holly)

As its name implies, this plant stands tall and enjoys reaching for the sky, making it perfect for creating privacy, shaping into hedges, or forming into quirky topiaries! It is an evergreen shrub with a dense habit of small leaves, resembling the Boxwood species. Ilex Crenata  boasts a delightfully slender silhouette with impressive height and strong columnar shape. It is also ideal for narrow garden beds or walkways. Unlike other species of holly, the Sky Pencil does not produce sharp spiny leaves, making this a safe choice for all gardeners. This delightful, compact & tidy plant will add a touch of elegance to any garden style. The Sky Pencil is grown on site at Lomalagi. 

Light requirement: Full sun or part shade. 
Water requirement: Minimal

Watering frequency: Water frequently when first planted to establish. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant will help retain soil moisture.
Soil: Well-draining soil, slight acidic. Not fussy on soil, tolerates all. 
Skill level: Suits Beginner Green thumb, 
Growth rate: Slow to moderate growth. Mulch and water regularly to establish plant for the first 3 months. Prune only in winter while the plant is dormant, and only if required.
Suitable for container gardens: Use Acidic potting mix and position the container in a sunny or partially shaded location

Mature Height : 1-3m
Mature Width: 1-2m spread

Seasonality: Evergreen

Drought Tolerant: Yes, suits waterwise gardens
Frost Tolerant: Yes, this plant is frost tolerant. 
Wind Tolerant: Yes 

Leaf colour: Glossy dark green
Leaf Variegation pattern: No

Size of leaf : Small, oval-shaped leaves densely packed on the stem.

Flower colour: Creamy/white with a yellow/green centre
Flower Shape: Clusters of inflorescences appear with four small petals. 

Fragrance : 

When: Blooms in late spring to early summer