Douglas Fir: The Historic Christmas Tree of America
- BCTree Blogger
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
The Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) holds a special place in the history of American Christmas traditions. With its full shape, soft green needles, and sweet fragrance, the Douglas Fir was once the most popular Christmas tree species in the country, and it remains one of the most widely grown evergreens today.
Roots in the Pacific Northwest
The Douglas Fir is native to the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains, where it can grow to towering heights of more than 200 feet in the wild. Its name honors Scottish botanist David Douglas, who first described the species in the early 1800s.
The tree’s rise as a holiday favorite began in the 1920s and 30s, when improved railroads allowed Oregon and Washington growers to ship fresh-cut trees across the country. For decades, the Douglas Fir dominated Christmas tree markets nationwide, cementing its place as a holiday tradition.
What Makes Douglas Firs Special?
The Douglas Fir stands out for its timeless qualities:
Soft, Flat Needles: Dark green to blue-green, about 1–1.5 inches long, giving the tree a lush, full appearance.
Sweet Fragrance: Known for a pleasant, forest-like aroma that fills a home.
Full, Pyramidal Shape: Dense branching creates the classic “bushy” Christmas tree look.
Long History: One of the first commercially grown Christmas tree species in the U.S.
Versatility: Popular not only as cut trees but also for wreaths, garlands, and holiday greenery.
A Legacy of Popularity
For much of the 20th century, the Douglas Fir was America’s best-selling Christmas tree, with millions harvested every year. Although species like the Fraser Fir and Noble Fir have gained popularity in recent decades, the Douglas Fir remains a top choice for families, especially in the West and Midwest.
Oregon continues to lead the way in Douglas Fir production, exporting millions of trees annually to homes across the country and even overseas.
Tradition That Lasts
Choosing a Douglas Fir is about more than just decoration—it’s about honoring a historic holiday tradition. Families who bring one home each season enjoy the same tree that defined Christmas in America for generations.
At BCTree.farm, we’re proud to offer beautiful Douglas Firs, fresh from the farm and ready to fill your home with fragrance, greenery, and holiday cheer.
🌲 Bring Home a Douglas Fir This Season
Celebrate Christmas with one of America’s original holiday trees—the Douglas Fir, a classic that never goes out of style.👉 Pre-order yours today at BCTree.farm and continue a tradition nearly a century strong.
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