The smooth gray trunks of 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' contort and twist in all directions and become abstract art when outlined in snow. Depending on the cultivar, the low-hanging canopy can be green, bronzy green or maroon. The foliage of this specimen is quite tender and can be nipped by late spring frosts. Site where a lot of sun won't stimulate an early unfurling. Still a new phenomenon at many nurseries, this little evergreen shrub is a year-round attraction to those lucky enough to be able to grow it.
Foliage is dark green, arranged in rosettes of long, narrow leaves.
Bright red berries amid dark green foliage make this a Christmasy plant. Birds don't like the bitter berries and eat them as a last resort. Male Japanese skimmias like 'Rubella' keep their flower buds all winter. In some cultivars the buds are maroon and white and extremely attractive. Beaded clusters form.