A Guide to Christmas Trees in North Carolina
Nothing sets the tone for the holiday season quite like the scent of a fresh-cut Christmas tree. For many North Carolinians, picking the perfect Christmas tree is an annual tradition. Known as the "Christmas Tree State," North Carolina produces some of the most beautiful and fragrant Christmas trees in the country. We currently provide over 22% of the nation’s Christmas trees and the NC Fraser Fir has been named the best overall Christmas tree many times over. Whether you're drawn to the classic look of a Fraser Fir or want to try something unique like a Leyland Cypress, there’s a tree for every style and taste. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of Christmas trees available in North Carolina, where to find them, and how to keep them looking their best all season long.
Types of Christmas Trees in North Carolina
North Carolina is a leading producer of Christmas trees, thanks to its ideal climate and fertile soil. Here are some of the most popular varieties you’ll find:
1. Fraser Fir
Style: Known as the “Cadillac of Christmas Trees,” the Fraser Fir is the most popular tree grown in North Carolina. With soft, glossy needles, strong branches, and a perfect pyramidal shape, this tree checks all the boxes. Its signature fragrance adds to its charm.
Why It’s Popular: Its sturdy branches are ideal for holding ornaments, and its excellent needle retention means less mess to clean up.
Where to Find: Fraser Firs are native to the Appalachian Mountains and can be found at most tree farms in Western North Carolina.
2. Leyland Cypress
Style: A hybrid of Monterey Cypress and Alaskan Cedar, Leyland Cypress has soft, feathery foliage in shades of green or bluish-gray. This tree has a more delicate appearance compared to traditional fir trees.
Why It’s Popular: Perfect for families with allergies, the Leyland Cypress is non-aromatic and doesn’t shed needles.
Where to Find: Look for Leyland Cypress trees at farms in Central and Eastern North Carolina.
3. White Pine
Style: The White Pine features long, soft needles and a dense, full appearance. Its light green hue adds a fresh, natural look to holiday decor.
Why It’s Popular: This tree is known for its long-lasting needles and subtle fragrance, making it a low-maintenance option.
Where to Find: White Pines are common throughout the state and are a favorite at U-pick tree farms.
4. Carolina Sapphire Cypress
Style: With silvery-blue foliage and a striking scent of lemon and mint, the Carolina Sapphire Cypress adds an unexpected pop of color and fragrance.
Why It’s Popular: This tree is drought-tolerant and holds up well indoors. It’s perfect for those looking for something unique.
Where to Find: Available at select tree farms in the eastern and southern parts of the state.
5. Virginia Pine
Style: A traditional Southern favorite, the Virginia Pine has short, twisted needles and a natural, bushy appearance.
Why It’s Popular: Its dense branches and rich green color make it a nostalgic choice for many families in the region.
Where to Find: Virginia Pines thrive in the warmer regions of North Carolina, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plains.
Where to Find Christmas Trees in North Carolina
North Carolina is home to countless Christmas tree farms, so you’re never far from the perfect tree. Here are a few places to check out:
1. Western North Carolina
C & J Christmas Trees: Famous for its premium Fraser Firs and picturesque mountain views.
Appalachian Mountain Farms: Right in the heart of North Carolina’s Christmas tree industry, this farm is busting with Fraser Firs as far as the eye can see. Lots of other fun family activities as well!
2. Central North Carolina
Jordan Lake Christmas Tree Farm (Apex): Offers a variety of trees, including Leyland Cypress and Virginia Pine.
Spillman’s Tree Farm (Sophia): A family-friendly spot with a wide selection of White Pines and Fraser Firs.
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3. Eastern North Carolina
Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm (Waynesville): Located in the coastal plains, this farm specializes in Leyland Cypress and Carolina Sapphire Cypress.
Sharpe Tree Farm (Rocky Mount): Features a variety of fresh-cut and choose-and-cut trees, including White Pine and Virginia Pine.
How to Choose the Perfect Tree
When selecting a Christmas tree, keep these tips in mind:
Measure Your Space: Know the height of your ceiling and the width of the space where you’ll place the tree.
Check for Freshness: Run your hand along the branches—if the needles stay on, the tree is fresh.
Inspect the Base: Look for a tree with a straight, sturdy trunk to ensure it fits securely in your tree stand.
Caring for Your Christmas Tree
Once you’ve found your perfect tree, proper care is essential to keep it looking fresh throughout the holiday season.
1. Prep the Tree:
Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1-2 inches off the base to allow it to absorb water more effectively.
2. Water Daily:
A fresh tree can drink up to a gallon of water per day. Check the water level in your tree stand daily and refill as needed.
3. Avoid Heat Sources:
Keep the tree away from heat vents, fireplaces, and direct sunlight to prevent it from drying out.
4. Use LED Lights:
LED lights are cooler than traditional incandescent bulbs and help reduce the risk of overheating.
5. Dispose Properly:
When the season is over, recycle your tree through local collection programs or compost it for your garden.
Decorating Ideas for Different Tree Styles
Each type of Christmas tree has its own unique charm, and your decorations can enhance its natural beauty:
Fraser Fir: Go traditional with red and gold ornaments, twinkling lights, and a classic tree topper.
Leyland Cypress: Highlight its soft, feathery foliage with lightweight decorations and a minimalist theme.
White Pine: Use natural ornaments like pinecones, dried oranges, and wooden accents for a rustic vibe.
Carolina Sapphire Cypress: Pair this silvery-blue tree with cool-toned ornaments like silver, white, and blue.
Virginia Pine: Embrace nostalgia with handmade ornaments, multicolored lights, and vintage-inspired decor.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the classic beauty of a Fraser Fir or the unique charm of a Carolina Sapphire Cypress, North Carolina offers a wide variety of Christmas trees to suit every style and preference. Visiting a local tree farm not only ensures you get the freshest tree but also supports the state’s thriving Christmas tree industry. By following the tips above, you can keep your tree healthy and vibrant all season long—and create cherished memories along the way.
This holiday season, make your home a little brighter and your celebrations a little greener with a fresh, North Carolina-grown Christmas tree. Happy tree hunting!
