Nordmann fir, Norway spruce or Fraser fir: which tree?

Updated October 2026

Most UK farms grow a few main varieties. Here’s how they usually compare. Every tree is different, so look closely at the one in front of you.

Nordmann fir

The UK’s most popular real tree. Soft, glossy, dark green needles that aren’t prickly, and very good needle retention, so it’s a safe choice if you want the tree up for several weeks. The scent is mild. Nordmanns are often a little more expensive than spruce.

Norway spruce

The traditional British Christmas tree, with a strong, classic pine scent and a neat conical shape. The needles are sharper and it drops needles sooner in a warm room, so it suits people who put their tree up later in December and keep it watered.

Fraser fir

A slimmer tree with upward-pointing branches, good for smaller rooms. The needles are soft, hold well, and have a pleasant citrusy scent. Fewer farms grow it than the two above.

Others you might see

• Blue spruce: striking blue-grey colour, very prickly, and good needle retention for a spruce.
• Noble fir: silvery-blue needles and stiff branches that take heavy decorations. Often pricier.
• Pot-grown trees: sold with roots in a pot. With care they can go back outside after Christmas, but they need a cool room and shouldn’t be indoors for long.

Quick comparison

Which varieties a farm grows varies. Where a farm mentions them, we include it on the farm page.