With roots (see what I did there) in Northern Europe, Christmas trees have been synonymous with traditional holiday festivities for as long as we can remember. And our beautiful country is no exception. Irish tree producers have been growing a variety of Christmas trees, all of which we will be providing an in-depth review of below. Even though the Christmas season is still six months away, it doesn’t mean we can’t talk about the different types of real Christmas trees that grow in the Emerald Isle.
If you’ve ever wanted to know what Christmas tree you should purchase for the upcoming holiday season or if one smells the best (hint: there is), then continue reading.
Types of Christmas Trees
While there are a total of 25 different Christmas tree species across the globe, these are the most popular species grown in Ireland:
- Noble Fir
- Nordmann Fir
- Lodgepole Pine
- Norway Spruce
- Fraser Fir
- Korean Fir
- Lasio Carpa
- Blue Spruce
1. Noble Fir
As one of the most popular types of Christmas trees in Ireland, the Noble Fir is widely known for having extremely sturdy branches and thick needles. The Noble Fir’s structure is often the reason for its popularity as it can display ornaments and other Christmas decorations with ease. In addition to the Noble Fir’s structure, this type of Christmas tree is also known for its woodsy scent. Because of this tree’s ability to lock moisture within its branches, these trees will retain their fragrance long after they’ve been cut down (making them one of the best-scented trees in the process). Have you ever smelled a Christmas tree and instantly had that “Christmasy” feeling? You can thank the Noble Fir!
When this type of tree hits maturity, it can grow between 50-100’. Naturally, this is too big to cut down and display in your home, so on average, your Noble Fir should be between 4’-20’ depending on the size of your home and/or display area.
2. Nordmann Fir
Another widely popular type of Christmas tree (and the most popular type of Christmas tree in Europe) is the Nordmann Fir. Like the Noble Fir, the Nordmann Fir is excellent for hanging decorations thanks to its strong branches. On average, these types of trees will last for five weeks after being harvested, making sure they last throughout the entire Christmas season.
One of the biggest benefits of using a Nordmann Fir for the holidays is the fact that they are usually allergy-friendly. This is because, unlike the Noble Fir which has a notable, distinct woodsy fragrance, the Nordmann Fir’s scent is much less potent. These trees are also very lightweight, making them very easy to transport. This species of tree is normally structured with their needles usually facing upward.
3. Lodgepole Pine
Distinct pine scent, bushy appearance, and upward-facing needles, the Lodgepole Pine is another long-lasting Christmas tree that families love to display for the holidays. Like the other trees mentioned on this list, they commonly survive for about five weeks after being harvested. Due to their stature, however, these types of Christmas trees are best displayed in rooms that have ample space and high ceilings. These trees would not be suitable for apartment living.
At Cork Christmas Trees, you can order these types of trees as an online exclusive. This is because our Lodgepole pine trees are grown in the West Cork mountains and harvested in a limited supply. So, if you’re interested in displaying a Lodgepole Pine in your home this winter season, we recommend making an order as soon as possible.
4. Norway Spruce
The Norway Spruce originated in Europe and is known as being one of the fastest-growing species of Spruce trees. Like others on this list, these Christmas trees are a beautiful dark green hue and have strong branches with thick needles that make them perfect for hanging decorations. The Norway Spruce is also a sun-loving tree, making it the perfect tree to be displayed in front of a window. If you’re in the market for a Norway Spruce and want to purchase one for your home, it’s important to remember that this tree needs to receive a minimum of six hours worth of indirect sunlight per day.
5. Fraser Fir
The Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) is the most popular Christmas tree sold in America, and it’s one of the best because it holds its needles well. The Fraser Fir gets small at the top, which allows for ample room on whatever surface you decide to place it. This tree is grown in Ireland and well suited to the climate and soils.
6 Korean Fir
The Korean fir Abies koreana is another tree grown in Ireland, and is quite similar to fraser fir but it has shorter needles. This type of Christmas Tree is often used in homes that have a more open floor plan because its height allows for better lighting and air circulation throughout the room while still maintaining decorating potential.
7. Lasiocarpa
The Abies lasiocarpa has a stunning silver blue tint colour and have soft needles. This is a rare tree grown in Ireland but makes an excellent choice due to its appearance.
8. Blue Spruce
The blue spruce Picea pungens makes a beautiful Christmas tree, but is not as popular because it sheds needles so easily. It is also a rare tree grown in Ireland and makes an ideal tree for growing in pots.
Conclusion
The Christmas season is a celebration of life here, in Ireland, and Christmas trees have long been an important part of that tradition. And while the winter season may still be months away, history shows that it’ll be here before you know it. Whether you’re in the market for a woodsy-scented tree like the Noble Fir or a Nordmann Fir, Cork Christmas Tree Farm can help. Our trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so no matter what the size of your home or budget, you can find or purchase a Christmas tree that is perfect for celebrating the holiday season. We’re available by phone or online to answer any questions you have about the upcoming winter season.