The Complete Guide to the Different Types of Christmas Trees

Approximately six to eight million Christmas trees are sold every year in the UK. But deciding which type of tree you should buy will depend on a number of factors. For example, ‘does it have a low needle-drop rate?’ ‘Do you want it scented or scentless?’ Or ‘is it safe for my children and pets?’

With trees being a must-have Christmas item for many, it can be hard to figure out which one to choose. So, we’ve compiled a short list of different types of Christmas trees that are popular here in the UK. Let’s start with:

Nordmann Fir (Abies Nordmanniana)

The Nordmann Fir tree is one of the most expensive types of Christmas trees. However, it might be worth the investment if you consider its unique benefits. Thanks to these great features, it has quickly become one of the most popular Christmas tree varieties.

Nordmann Fir trees are known for having needles that stay intact, making them a great choice if you want a ‘mess-free’ tree. And because the needles are rounded and scentless, they’re considered a child- and pet-friendly tree to invest in.

Native to the Caucasus mountains, Nordmann Fir trees are accustomed to dry summers and harsh winters. This makes them safe enough to place near radiators or fireplaces in the home. And with their wide circumference, they can accommodate a vast number of presents.

• Scent: No smell.
• Needle colour: Dark green with a blue-tone underside.
• Needle retention: Sheds very few needles.
• Child/Pet friendly: Friendly for both children and pets.

Norway Spruce (Picea Abies)

If you were to ask yourself, ‘what type of tree is a Christmas tree?’ you’d probably picture this one. Norway Spruce trees are seen as the symbol of Christmas. You’ll find them on Christmas cards, wrapping paper, and even biscuit cutters.

But their popularity isn’t a new fad. In fact, it dates back to the Victorian period when Prince Albert introduced the tree to the UK. Since then, Norway has traditionally sent a Norway Spruce tree to London, New York, Edinburgh, and Washington DC every Christmas.

Because Norway Spruce trees don’t grow too tall, they make a very cost-effective choice. However, they do have a distinct conifer smell, almost like pine or citrus, which can be unpleasant for some pets (particularly cats). They also tend to shed needles over time, posing a hazard in homes with small children.

Norway Spruce trees come with a few essential rules. It’s best to buy them later in December so you can fully enjoy your tree for as long as possible. If bought too early, you may start to see needles drop before the big day. It’s also recommended to keep them potted in fresh water and away from heat sources (like radiators or fireplaces).

• Scent: Pine and citrus scent.
• Needle colour: Deep green.
• Needle retention: Poor.
• Child/Pet friendly: Can be hazardous.

Serbian Spruce (Picea Omorika)

The Serbian Spruce tree has gradually become a popular choice for many at Christmas. That’s because it’s quite a slender tree, making it the perfect fit for homes with limited space. And with its upward-facing branches, you don’t have to worry about your precious Christmas decorations falling off.

The needles on these trees are similar to those of the Norway Spruce variety. However, they do have a slight blue-white undertone, making them appear more wintry rather than traditionally evergreen.

Serbian Spruce trees shed fewer needles than the Norwegian variety, so they are definitely a child- and pet-friendly option. They also have a smell reminiscent of citrus and bark. Again, it’s best to keep them in fresh water and away from heat sources (like radiators and open fires).

• Scent: Citrus and bark scent.
• Needle colour: Green-blue with a white underside.
• Needle retention: Moderate.
• Child/Pet friendly: Friendly for both children and pets.

Alberta White Spruce (Picea Glauca var. albertiana 'Conica')

Alberta White Spruce trees are compact and petite. They have a blue undertone rather than being evergreen. And with their dense needles growing in a cone-like shape, they make the ideal mini Christmas tree for your dinner table.

If you’re interested in investing in an Alberta White Spruce tree, you may be able to watch it grow a few inches after winter. You don’t even need to pot it outdoors; simply place it in a pot with soil and water it well. Just be sure it doesn’t receive direct heat blasts, or it may dry out.

Alternatively, you can plant it outdoors and watch it grow into the new year. Soon, you’ll be able to see bright green needles with small flowering buds in the spring, and dark green needles accompanied by flowering heather in winter.

• Scent: Slightly pungent forest scent.
• Needle colour: Blue undertone (changes with seasons).
• Needle retention: Moderate.
• Child/Pet friendly: Friendly for both children and pets.

Is it better to buy a real Christmas tree or an artificial one?

You might think cutting down trees simply for decoration is bad for the environment. But buying a real Christmas tree locally is a better choice than purchasing an artificial one.

Real trees have a lower carbon footprint, especially if they are disposed of properly. That includes replanting or donating them (as most local councils will reuse or recycle them).

Many people worry about deforestation when it comes to Christmas trees. However, most Christmas trees are grown as horticultural crops by the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA). According to the BCTGA, for every tree that’s cut down, seedlings are immediately planted—up to ten new ones per tree. So, there’s no deforestation involved!

• Child/Pet friendly: Friendly for both children and pets.

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