A Guide to the Most Popular Live Christmas Trees

Our live Christmas tree guide breaks down the most popular real Christmas trees to help you decide which is best for you and your home.

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is picking out the Christmas tree. It’s something I looked forward to as a kid and something I love to do with my kids now. There’s something so magical about wandering the tree lot and searching for the one that will fill your home with that fresh, woodsy scent that’ll make you smile every time you walk by it.

But if you’ve ever stood there staring at row after row of trees and wondered, “what’s actually the difference between all of these?“, well, you’re not alone.

For me, fullness and scent are top priorities, but let’s break down the different types of trees depending on your personal preferences.

Turns out there are quite a few varieties of live Christmas trees, and each one has its own personality. Some are tall and slender while others are full and fluffy. Some have that classic, ultra-pine smell (my personal fave), while others barely give off any scent at all. And depending on what kind of ornaments you have (lightweight vs. chunky heirlooms), certain trees will work much better than others.

To help you choose the perfect tree this year, I put together a detailed guide that breaks down the most common types of live Christmas trees — including their general size, fullness, scent, needle type, and what each one is best suited for

The Live Christmas Tree Guide

Fraser Fir

If you picture the quintessential Christmas tree in your head, there’s a good chance it looks a lot like a Fraser Fir. These trees have a beautiful pyramid shape with branches that turn slightly upward, giving them a tidy, classic appearance. As time goes on, the tree opens up a bit and looks absolutely beautiful!

Fraser Fir needles are short, soft, and dark green with a silvery underside that catches the light in such a pretty way. They’re also known for excellent needle retention, which means they stay fresh longer and you won’t be vacuuming every day. I can attest to this! We always go for a Fraser Fir, and even in the dry climate of Denver, the tree stays fresh for so long—just make sure you water regularly.

Why people love it: The scent is wonderfully strong and woodsy, the branches are sturdy enough for heavier ornaments, and the overall shape works in almost any style of home. The scent alone makes this one a top pick for me!

If you are looking for a traditional, classic Christmas tree with an excellent scent, this is the one for you!

Balsam Fir

Balsam Firs have a slimmer, slightly more relaxed shape compared to Frasers, but they’re still full enough to feel lush and festive. Their soft, flat needles are dark green and hold on incredibly well, even if you’re not the most consistent waterer.

What makes Balsam Fir stand out is its scent — many people say it’s the sweetest and most nostalgic of all the Christmas tree varieties. It’s the kind of smell that instantly transports you into holiday mode. There’s a reason you’ll find candles in the balsam and fraser fir variety!

Why people love it: The aroma! It’s one of the strongest and most traditional holiday scents. These trees also thrive in smaller spaces thanks to their more slender profile.

Because of their smaller size, these can be great for apartments, cozy living rooms, or anyone who wants that nostalgic Christmas tree scent to hit you as soon as you walk through the door.

Douglas Fir

Douglas Firs are known for being incredibly full and bushy — think fluffy, storybook-pretty Christmas trees. Their branches angle slightly downward, giving them that classic triangular silhouette kids often draw.

The needles are soft and medium-length with a lighter, sweeter scent compared to Frasers or Balsams. Douglas Firs are also widely available in most regions, making them one of the most common choices at tree lots.

Why people love it: If you love a very full, lush-looking tree with tons of branches to hang lights from, Douglas Fir is your girl. It’s one of the best options for achieving that full, glowing holiday look.

One thing to keep in mind is that the branches aren’t as strong for heavier ornaments. probably because the branches angle downward vs. upward.

Noble Fir

Noble Firs have a beautiful, sculptural look thanks to their layered branches and naturally spaced design. Instead of being super dense, they feel airy and elegant, with room to showcase special ornaments.

Their blue-green needles are sturdy, and they hold up really well — some of the best needle retention of all varieties. The scent is mild and clean rather than strong and sharp.

Why people love it: The shape! It’s the kind of tree that feels a little more elevated and modern. If you want your ornaments to shine and love a slightly more minimal aesthetic, you’ll adore the Noble Fir.

It’s also great if you have heavier ornaments or for anyone who prefers a less dense, more architectural Christmas tree.

Nordmann Fir

If you’re looking for a tree that barely sheds and has super soft needles (great if you have kids), look to the Nordmann Fir. These trees are symmetrical, medium-full, and have glossy, dark green needles that stay put for what feels like forever.

One thing to note: Nordmann Firs have a very subtle scent — almost none at all — which is a pro or a con depending on what you like. If someone in your household has allergies, this is one of the best options.

Why people love it: No sharp needles, very little shedding, and a smooth, elegant look. It’s low-maintenance while still being beautiful.

Blue Spruce

Blue Spruce trees are absolutely stunning if you want something with a unique tone. Their needles have a silvery-blue cast that looks almost frosted, giving your tree a wintry, modern feel even before you add lights.

The needles are stiff and can be a bit sharp, but the branches are strong and hold heavy ornaments like a champ. The scent is strong and fresh, very much on the classic pine side.

Why people love it: The color! That icy-blue shade is such a standout and so different from other trees. Plus, the branches are super sturdy.

If you’ve got lots of heavier ornaments or simply wants a unique, eye-catching tree with a cool-toned look, try a blue spruce.

Scotch Pine

Scotch Pine trees are extremely popular because they’re usually affordable, easy to find, and impressively full. If you want density, this tree delivers. The needles are medium-length and stiff, and they have almost unbeatable needle retention — they won’t shed even if they get a little dry.

The scent is moderate, not overpowering but definitely present.

Why people love it: Budget-friendly, full, and low-shedding. A great all-around classic tree.

This tree species is ideal for anyone who wants a traditional, dense tree without a big price tag.

Tips for Keeping it Alive Longer

No matter which tree you choose, the best tip for keeping it fresh is simple: cut a fresh slice off the trunk, most nurseries or tree farms will do this for you.

When you first get home, fill up the tree stand with very warm water. This will help loosen up the sap and keep your tree alive longer. Make sure to fill up the water consistently so it doesn’t get dried out. I typically use warm water every watering just to help the sap loosen up so it drinks more water.

Regular watering is not only for keeping your tree alive longer and to keep it from dropping needles, but it also helps make the scent stronger and last longer.

The best Christmas tree is the one that brings you joy when you walk into the room. Whether you love something modern and sculptural or fluffy and traditional, there’s a live tree variety out there that’s perfect for your holiday season.