Damaged Sweetgum Tree in January

This sweetgum tree has lost a lot of bark. The lichen have also made themselves at home. We would almost think the tree is dead were it not for the newer shoots branching out.

Damaged Sweetgum Tree in January, © B. Radisavljevic

 I liked the way the colorful leaves still clinging to those small branches contrasted with the rosemary's pale blue flowers and green needle-like leaves. Winter needs all the color it can get.

Which plants brighten your winter?