Noble fir is known for stiff, evenly spaced branches in neat tiers, with short blue-green needles that curve upward. It’s the tree to choose if you have heavy ornaments, because the branches hold them without sagging.
Noble fir grows best at higher, cooler elevations, so in the Santa Cruz Mountains you’ll often find it pre-cut, brought in from farther north. A few local farms grow it in the field. It has excellent needle retention and a mild, pleasant scent.
Farms that grow noble fir
- Patchen Christmas Tree Farm, Old Town
- Four Winds Christmas Trees
- Mountain Charlie Christmas Tree Ranch
- Peacock Tree Farm
Selection changes every season, so check with the farm before you go.
Compared with other trees
- Douglas fir: Douglas fir is softer and fuller, and nearly every local farm grows it to cut yourself.
- Silvertip (red fir): Silvertip has a similar tiered shape, with a silvery look.