Today's Christmas tree shoppers have more choices than ever, including the many specialized varieties grown on farms across the United States. Our guide to six popular evergreens will help you find the perfect tree in your area. When selecting a tree, make sure it doesn't have noticeable needle loss, discolored foliage, a musty odor, or wrinkled bark, advises Rick Dungey of the National Christmas Tree Association.

Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri)

Region(s): Midwest, Northeast, southern Appalachians

Short, durable needles and open, well-spaced branches allow for lots of dangling ornaments.

(Pinus sylvestris)

Region(s): Northwest, Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast

Sturdy branches are dense and tightly spaced, for those that like a tree packed with decorations. The earthy scent will last through the holidays.

(Pseudotsuga menziesii)

Region(s): Northwest, Great Lakes, Northeast

Sweet-smelling blue-green foliage is fuller and thicker than a Fraser. Caveat: Its needles won't last as long on the branch.

(Pinus strobus)

Region(s): United States-Canada border

It retains its long, soft, bluish needles well. Caveat: The flexible branches can make decorating difficult; plus, there's little aroma.

(Cupressus leylandii)

Region(s): South

Its longevity and delicate, feathery forest-green to bluish-green branches make it a highly sought-after Christmas tree in the South.

(Abies concolor)

Region(s): West, Great Lakes, Northeast

Concolor's flat, silvery-blue and bluish-green needles smell faintly of citrus. Full, bushy branches support heavier ornaments and have excellent needle retention.