The common spruce (Picea abies) is the species traditionally used for Christmas trees in France. Large in size, it has the typical conical shape of the popular imagery Christmas tree with arching branches and dense antlers draping down. Its good resistance to spring frost, its rapid growth, its easy cultivation are all advantages. However, it is now largely supplanted by the Nordmann fir (Abies nordmanniana) which is better suited for indoor use. Although its growth is slower, its price higher and its resinous scent more discreet, the latter seduces three-quarters of the French consumers by its greater density, its more tiered branches and its larger needles which last longer.