Christmas trees come from several evergreen species, mainly conifers, with the most common choices being firs, spruces, and pines. People select these trees for their aroma, evergreen foliage, and needle retention, and different varieties offer distinct shapes, scents, and needle textures. Key types often used as Christmas trees

• Fir trees
  • Noble fir (Abies noble): Known for strong branches, good symmetry, and pleasant aroma.
  • Fraser fir (Abies fraseri): Noted for soft needles, intense fragrance, and excellent needle retention.
  • Balsam fir (Abies balsamea): Classic Christmas scent, dense needles, and traditional cone shape.
  • Canaan fir (Abies balsamea var. phanerolepis): Similar to other firs with a strong fragrance and good needle retention.
• Spruce trees
  • Norway spruce (Picea abies): Traditional outdoor spruce with a strong scent but relatively rapid needle drop if under-watered.
  • White spruce (Picea glauca): Blue-green needles and a classic conical shape; tends to be sturdy but may shed needles if dry.
• Pine trees
  • Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris): Long-needled, dense, and with good needle retention; common in older displays.
  • White pine (Pinus strobus): Soft needles and a light, airy look; tends to have good needle retention when properly watered.
• Other commonly offered conifers
  • Colorado blue spruce and other spruce varieties: Noted for striking color in some cultivars; similar care to other spruces.
  • Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii): Not technically a fir, but widely used for Christmas due to strong branches and good needle retention.
  • Concolor fir (Abies concolor): Soft needles and pleasant scent; similar care to other firs.

What influences choice

• Needle retention: Fir trees, especially Fraser and balsam firs, are famous for retaining needles well indoors.
• Fragrance: Balsam and Fraser firs are prized for their strong Christmas scents; some pines and spruces have distinctive aromas as well.
• Branch strength: Fir and noble fir varieties tend to hold heavier ornaments well due to sturdy branches.
• Shape and color: Spruces offer a classic, rugged look, while firs provide a fuller, more uniform silhouette. Color can range from deep green to blue-green depending on species.
• Availability and climate: Local availability, fresh-cut timing, and environmental conditions influence which species are common in a region.

If aiming for a fresh-cut display, consider visiting a local tree farm or nursery to see current selections and ask about needle retention, fragrance, and care requirements. Indoor care basics include keeping the tree well- watered, away from heat sources, and ensuring the environment isn’t overly dry, which helps preserve needles and aroma throughout the season.