Finding the perfect Christmas tree for your home can make a big difference in your holiday celebrations. What type of tree should you get? Does it look good with ornaments? Are the branches sturdy? To help you decide, we’ve made a list of the most popular Christmas trees in nature that have Balsam Hill counterparts, and what makes each of them special.
What Are the Different Types of Christmas Trees?
Here are some of the most popular species often used as Christmas trees.
Scotch Pine
Known for its excellent needle retention, the Pinus sylvestris is often considered the most beautiful pine tree with its dark green foliage and widely spaced branches.
Sugar Pine
Widely regarded as the “King of Pines”, the Pinus lambertiana is one of the tallest pine tree species in the world and features tufted branches composed of medium to long forest-green pine needles.
White Spruce
Known in New England as “White Spruce” and “Canadian Spruce” across Canada, it features bluish-green needles and a classic conical silhouette. Its dense foliage and symmetrical shape make it a popular Christmas tree.
Norway Spruce
This is a beloved European species known for its attractive shape and scent. While beautiful with its full and dense branches, this tree is quick to shed its needles. Opt for an artificial version for a hassle-free display.
Blue Spruce
Also known as “Colorado Blue Spruce,” this tree is native to the Rocky Mountains of North America. It’s a longtime Christmas tree favorite of many because of its shape, fragrance, and strong branches.
Balsam Fir
Native to the Northeast and the Appalachian mountain range, the Abies balsamea is a classic favorite known for its teardrop shape and a spicy scent considered as the most fragrant of all Christmas tree varieties.
Douglas Fir
Oregon’s official state tree is characterized by its full pyramid shape, dark green foliage, and fragrant needles. Many have been using it as a Christmas tree since the 1920s, and continues to be a household favorite to this day.
Noble Fir
Known for its signature blue-green color, the Noble Fir is native to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. It is also called white fir or red fir, and is a popular choice due to its dense foliage, sturdy branches, and long needle retention.
Fraser Fir
The Fraser Fir is widely regarded as the best Christmas tree species in nature. Fraser firs are known to last the longest and hold their shape well, no matter how far they travel
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Christmas Tree Is the Most Popular?
The Fraser Fir is the most popular Christmas tree, known for its fragrance, sturdy branches, and needle retention. The Douglas Fir and Balsam Fir are also popular choices.
What Christmas Trees Are Trending Now?
Trending Christmas trees now include slim or narrow silhouettes, frosted or flocked finishes, and sustainable artificial trees. Many are also choosing pre-lit trees with LED options for convenience and energy efficiency.
Which Tree Is Commonly Used as a Christmas Tree?
Fir trees are most commonly used for Christmas, especially varieties like Fraser, Noble, and Balsam Fir. They’re favored for their classic shape, strong branches, and excellent needle retention.
What Type of Tree Is a Christmas Tree?
Christmas trees are mostly firs, spruces, and pines. These needle-bearing trees maintain their green foliage year-round and include popular varieties like Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, and Scotch Pine.
What Is the Classic Christmas Tree Called?
The classic Christmas tree is traditionally called a "Christmas Fir" or "Fir Tree," with the Norway Spruce and Douglas Fir being the most iconic species. The Norway Spruce was the original Christmas tree used in Europe since the 16th century, while the Douglas Fir became America's most popular choice.
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