Finding the perfect Christmas tree for your home can make a big difference in your celebrations. What type of tree should you choose? Will it look good with ornaments? Are the branches sturdy enough? To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the most popular Christmas trees found in nature, along with their Balsam Hill counterparts, and what makes each one special.
What Are the Different Types of Christmas Trees?
Here are some of the most popular species commonly used as Christmas trees.
Blue Spruce
A lush, full-profile artificial Christmas tree featuring dense, multi-toned needles in rich blue-green hues. Its upward-arching branches create a natural silhouette, providing sturdy tips for showcasing ornaments. The tree’s realistic texture and classic shape make it a timeless centrepiece for traditional holiday decorating.
Balsam Fir
Inspired by the beloved Abies balsamea of the Northeast and the Appalachian region, this classic Christmas tree features a graceful teardrop silhouette and dense, layered branches. Known in nature for being the most fragrant of all fir varieties, the Balsam Fir captures the timeless charm most people associate with traditional holiday celebrations.
White Spruce
Known in New England as “White Spruce” and as “Canadian Spruce” across Canada, this beloved evergreen features bluish green needles and a classic conical silhouette. With its dense foliage and naturally symmetrical shape, it remains a popular choice for Christmas celebrations.
Fraser Fir
Widely regarded as the best Christmas tree species in nature, the Fraser fir is admired for its durability and long-lasting freshness. Known for holding its shape beautifully, even after travelling great distances, this tree features strong, evenly spaced branches that are ideal for showcasing ornaments.
Stratford Spruce
Known for its lush, layered branches and classic Christmas silhouette, the Stratford Spruce features rich green needles and a full profile that is perfect for showcasing ornaments. Its natural shape and realistic texture make it a timeless favourite for holiday decorating.
Mountain Fir
Known for its rustic charm and natural symmetry, the Berkshire Mountain Fir features layered branches and rich green needles that mimic the look of real high-elevation fir trees. Its lifelike texture and full silhouette make it a beautiful choice for showcasing your favourite ornaments.
Red Spruce
Known for its classic Christmas tree shape, the Picea rubens features dense branches and rich green needles with a subtle reddish hue. Its full silhouette and sturdy limbs make it an excellent choice for displaying ornaments.
Sanibel Spruce
Known for its soft, lifelike needles and natural charm, the Sanibel Spruce features a relaxed silhouette with layered branches that create depth and dimension. Its airy structure makes it ideal for showcasing ornaments while maintaining a fresh, elegant look.
Noble Fir
Known for its signature blue-green colour, the Abies procera is native to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. Also called white fir or red fir, this beloved species is prized for its dense foliage, sturdy branches, and excellent needle retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Christmas Tree Is the Most Popular?
The Fraser Fir is the most popular Christmas tree. It is known for its fresh fragrance, sturdy branches, and excellent needle retention. Other favourites include the Douglas Fir and the Balsam Fir.
What Christmas Trees Are Trending Now?
Popular trends include slim and narrow silhouettes, frosted or flocked finishes, and sustainable artificial trees. Many customers are also opting for pre-lit trees with LED options for their energy efficiency and ease of use.
Which Tree Is Commonly Used as a Christmas Tree?
Fir trees are the most commonly used, especially varieties such as Fraser, Noble, and Balsam Fir. They are preferred for their classic shape, strong branches, and long-lasting needles.
What Type of Tree Is a Christmas Tree?
Christmas trees are typically firs, spruces, or pines. These evergreen species keep their green foliage year-round and include well-loved varieties such as Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, and Scotch Pine.
What Is the Classic Christmas Tree Called?
The classic Christmas tree is often referred to as a Christmas Fir or simply a Fir Tree. The Norway Spruce is considered the original European Christmas tree, dating back to the 16th century, while the Douglas Fir has become a popular traditional choice across North America.