I've never heard of such a thing but did I some searching. There is a new variety called 'Soft Caress' that has thread-like foliage from the descriptions. Sounds like a really cool plant Mary. No wonder you want it. I don't know if it's readily available yet. Here's what comes up on Google.

Here is a link that might be useful: Mahonia 'Soft Caress'

Thanks! That's got to be it. So I'll do a print out and take it to the local nursery. I've got to have one!

The Novalis website has a blank at the top right where you can put in your zip code to find the nearest nursery that carries their plants. I don't think they'll carry Soft Caress in zone 6 but maybe they'll special order it for you if you ask. It doesn't seem clear what species it is so they may not know yet how hardy it is.

I'm growing mahonia bealei which isn't really hardy in zone 6. It struggled the first few years before it finally started growing. Late freezes are really hard on it so I cover it in spring if the temps drop.
High Country Gardens has red-berried mahonia that says it's hardy to zone 5 but I'm afraid it's more of a desert plant. I don't know how it would do here.

I enjoyed looking through the photos on your member page Mary. Your yard is a paradise.

I have creeping mahonia that I planted 3 yrs ago and it is induring. Not creeping, not growing but induring. Even the abelia is almost bare from the harsh winter. So sad. I'm taking in a soil sample today and see if I can perk everyone up.