12 Best Types of Christmas Trees to Suit Every Home
From fragrance to size, here's how to find the right one for you.
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Of all the Christmas traditions, there's nothing quite as magical as visiting a Christmas tree farm. On those chilly afternoons, you walk between fragrant rows of luscious pine, fir, or spruce trees. And then there it is, the one that calls to you—the one you can just see in your living room wrapped in your favorite Christmas tree ribbons, adorned with ornaments, and finished off with a tree skirt and pretty tree topper. Some might even argue picking the tree is better than decorating!
If you're like Ree Drummond and need to have the real deal each year, then you'll want to browse the different types of Christmas trees to see which works best in your home. For Ree, that's an impressive 12-foot full-bodied Noble fir. "Part of the beauty of a Christmas tree is the amazing scent that fills your house," she says. If fragrance is a top consideration for you too, you might also want to check out a Balsam Fir or White Fir, which are noted ahead!
There's a perfect tree out there for everyone, whether you're looking for one that's low-maintenance, great for small spaces, or is simply pretty. Traditionalists will probably prefer the classic White pine or popular Douglas fir, while those who want something a little outside of the box might enjoy the Leyland cypress. Just be sure to check out how to keep your Christmas tree alive through the season.
Most Popular Christmas Tree: Douglas Fir
The Douglas fir is one of the top-selling Christmas tree varieties in the U.S., thanks to its soft, sweetly scented needles and full form. It's even exported to Hawaii.
Most Traditional Christmas Tree: White Pine
You really can't beat a classic Christmas tree with that traditional look. If you want something out of a movie, go for a white pine. The tree is known for its long, soft needles (that are exceptionally mild) and impressive stature. It's the largest pine tree in the country and one of the most popular in the mid-Atlantic states.
Most Dramatic Christmas Tree: Grand Fir
Well, "grand" is certainly one word for it! It's no wonder this giant tree is native to the Pacific Northwest—it grows up to an astounding 230 feet tall! You're guaranteed to enjoy the fresh aroma of its citrus-scented needles and the bright yellow-green color. Bonus: Decorating will be a breeze thanks to its strong branches!
Prettiest Christmas Tree: Colorado Blue Spruce
A Western species, the Colorado Blue spruce is known for its unique bluish-gray hue. Other benefits: limited shedding and an attractive symmetrical shape. Just watch out for the needles—they're sharp!
Best for Landscaping: Korean Fir
Not only does the Korean Fir make for a great Christmas tree, but it would also look just as wonderful in your yard. Native to Asia, but quickly gaining popularity in cultivation in the U.S., it has dark green needles with striking silvery undersides that boast a distinctively soft texture. It's similar to but more compact than the Norman with lovely symmetry and a fresh, leafy aroma.
Newest to the Market: Canaan Fir
Canaan firs may be a new type of Christmas tree, but they're the best of all worlds! This is a medium-sized evergreen with the heartiness of a Fraser and the needle retention and rich color of a Balsam fir. The strong branches with soft needles make decorating a delight and its smell is on the milder side for anyone with a sensitive nose.
Most Fragrant Christmas Tree: Balsam Fir
Balsam firs have a spicy, fresh aroma that lasts throughout the holiday season. This tree's scent is so iconic, many Christmas-themed candles and home sprays are designed to smell just like it.
Best Low-Maintenance Christmas Tree: Scotch Pine
If you don't want to deal with cleaning fallen needles all season, the Scotch pine might be for you. This bright green variety is known for sturdy needles that hang tight to the branches even as they dry out.
Best Pet-Friendly Christmas Tree: Nordmann Fir
There's so much to love about the Nordmann Fir, making you oh-so-happy for the holidays. You can find it in several sizes, up to eight feet depending on the space in your home. It has a deep, rich color with rounded needles. Plus, you'll enjoy its excellent needle retention and light fragrance.
Best Classic Christmas Tree: Noble Fir
This is Ree's favorite type of tree: the classic Noble Fir! The conical Christmas tree is known for its stunning blue-green needles, needle retention and symmetrical, layered branches. Plus, it exudes a pleasant woodsy fragrance.
Easiest Christmas Tree to Transport: Fraser Fir
You'll love how the Fraser fir smells, but its durability is also a benefit. The species tends to hold its shape no matter how far it travels, so it's often shipped all across the country.
Best Christmas Tree for Allergies: Leyland Cypress
You don't have to miss out on having a real tree just because you have allergies. The Leyland cypress doesn't have a strong scent, shed many needles, or produce sap, making it a great choice for people who are sensitive to other types of real trees.
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