Fraser Fir & Balsams
Fraser Fir Christmas Trees
Fraser fir and balsam fir are very similar. Fraser needles are flattened, dark-green with a medial grove on the upper side an two broad silver/white underside. The needs are approximately 1/2 inch long. The top of the tree the branches the needles tend to curl upward holding heavier ornaments and the lower branches are longer and have longer needles that are softer and can hold lighter ornaments.
The combination of form, needle retention, dark-green color, pleasant scent and excellent shipping characteristics is why the Fraser fir is the most popular Christmas tree species.
Balsams Fir Christmas Trees
The Balsam Fir displays dense, dark-green needles. On older branches, the needles tend to be shorter and curved upward so as to cover the upper sides of the twigs.
Individual needles are somewhat flat and may be blunt or notched at the end. Needles have a broad circular base and are usually dark green on the upper surface, lighter on the lower surface.
Sometimes referred to as “blister pine”, the blisters contain a sticky, fragrant, liquid resin which is the smell of Christmas.
.