Ilex cr. 'Sky Pencil' (CG)

A narrow, upright evergreen shrub with a columnar habit, making it an excellent choice for small spaces or as a vertical accent in landscapes. Hardy in zones 5-9, it thrives in temperatures ranging from -20 to 30°F. Its dark green, glossy foliage maintains its color year-round, with no significant fall color change. It produces inconspicuous white flowers in spring, followed by small black berries in fall, which attract birds. Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and adapts well to full sun to part shade. Reaching a mature height of 6-10 feet and a width of 2-3 feet, it is ideal for narrow hedges or decorative planter boxes. Deer-resistant and low-maintenance, this shrub is perfect for tidy, formal gardens or naturalistic designs.