The Nordmann Fir tree, otherwise known as the ‘non-drop’ tree is by far the most popular tree in the UK. Every year it is the best selling real Christmas tree and for good reason – not only does the Nordmann Fir look fantastic with its bushy branches and even shape, but its longevity is
second to none. With good care, it will last you all through the festive season and as it is considered a ‘non-drop’ tree, you won’t spend your life cleaning up needles. Read on to find out more about the Nordmann Fir and if it’s the right Christmas tree for you.
ABOUT THE NORDMANN FIR TREE
The Nordmann Fir (sometimes spelt as Nordmann Fir) is currently the most popular Christmas tree in the UK. Nordmann Firs are typically grown in the Scottish Highlands and in Eastern Europe where the
temperatues are cooler. They are also known as Caucasian Firs with the technical name of Abies ordmanniana. They are more commonly known as a
‘non-drop’ Christmas tree due to their excellent needle retention. Nordmann Fir trees can grow to be exceptionally tall, with some variations reaching dizzying heights of over 250ft! Those used for
Christmas trees however are more typically around the 3ft – 12ft range although it is possible to get both smaller and larger versions. The Nordmann Firs that we offer are grown in Scotland and have been carefully raised for around 10 years. As we only offer premium grade trees, we select the very best each year meaning that every Nordmann Fir that we sell is full and bushy with a beautiful shape.
NORDMANN FIR APPEARANCE
Even though not technically considered the ‘original’ Christmas tree, the shape of the Nordmann Fir is actually what many people now consider to be the classic Christmas tree shape. It is typically very full and bushy around the base with progressively shorter branches until you reach the tree crown.
The branches can be very plentiful which leads to its bushy shape and are ideal if you love lots of ornaments on your tree! The colour tends to be darker than some other varieties of Christmas tree and have beautiful deepgreen glossy foliage. The branches and needles are much softer to the touch than outdoor trees which make the Nordmann Fir a wonderful choice if you have young children or pets – no more pricked fingers from sharp tree needles! Many Nordmann Firs come with a long top branch which can either be trimmed down for a tree topper ornament or can be left as is – it’s
purely dependent on personal preference.
THE NON-DROP CHRISTMAS TREE
The Nordmann Fir is more commonly known as the ‘non-drop’ tree because of its excellent needle retention. Even after the tree dries out, Nordmann Firs will still largely keep hold of most of their needles and generally stand up to heat a lot better than its Norway Spruce counterpart. If you like to keep your home warm and toasty and are in search of a low maintenance options, you will struggle to find a Christmas tree that fares better. That said, all Christmas trees need to be watered regularly, especially when kept in warm conditions. We have a care guide of how to look after your Nordmann Fir tree here but we would always advise to keep your tree away from direct heat and to ensure it is well-watered throughout the festive season. In terms of scent, the Nordmann Fir does not produce a strong scent unlike Norway Spruce and Fraser Fir varieties but a fresh, clean, citrus smell can sometimes be detected.