Christmas Trees

The origins of one of the most important festive traditions are closely connected with Kew. Although commonly believed to be Prince Albert, it was in fact Queen Charlotte, one of Kew's royal residents in the 18th Century, who brought the first ever Christmas tree to Britain from Germany, introducing the custom of decorated indoor trees to this country.

In keeping with this long association, many species are now being grown at our Wakehurst Place garden. The following pages trace the history of the Christmas tree, how they are grown, and give a guide to the key characteristics of 8 species that you may be lucky to find for sale in early Decmeber at Wakehurst Place, if you're quick!

Find out more about Christmas trees

Introduction

History of the Christmas Tree

Wakehurst Place

What trees are grown?

Cultivation techniques

Selling trees

Plant profiles

See also

Christmas plants

Festive foods

More plants

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