While artificial Christmas trees may look similar from a distance, a closer look reveals key differences in material, craftsmanship, and durability. At Balsam Hill Canada, we create a variety of tree types to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a realistic polyethylene (PE) tree that captures the look of your favourite evergreen or a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) one that balances quality and value, we have the perfect option for you. Explore this guide to find the style that best fits your home./p>
What Is a PVC Tree?
When artificial Christmas trees were first introduced, most featured PVC needles. This material is pressed into thin sheets and cut into fine, rectangular, needle-like strips. These strands are then twisted between two wire strings to form the tree’s branches.
PVC needles tend to appear flatter and have less dimension, but their affordability makes them a popular alternative to real trees. They’re a great choice for those who want the look of a traditional Christmas tree at a more accessible price point.
What is a PE Christmas Tree?
PE was introduced to the artificial Christmas tree industry several years after PVC and has since become the preferred material for replicating the look of real evergreens. Detailed moulds are created using actual conifer branches, then infused with PE to produce remarkably lifelike foliage. Unlike PVC trees, PE needles capture the shape, thickness, and fullness of natural tree branches.
Balsam Hill Needle Types
Inspired by the beauty of real evergreens, Balsam Hill trees feature foliage crafted from PVC and PE needles. Each material offers its own balance of realism, texture, and practicality, allowing you to choose the perfect tree to match your holiday style and needs.
Classic
Our Classic Needle foliage is crafted from flat PVC strips cut to mimic natural evergreen branches, featuring soft and flexible tips. With their flat, papery texture, these needles evoke the traditional look and nostalgic charm of the classic artificial Christmas trees many grew up with.
True Needle®
Our exclusive True Needle® technology uses injection-moulded PE needles to replicate the structure, texture, and colour variations of real evergreens. The result is a remarkably lifelike, durable, and long-lasting artificial Christmas tree that captures the beauty of nature for seasons to come.
Our reNEW™ trees feature the same lifelike True Needle® technology as our signature collections but are crafted with up to 30% post-consumer or plant-based plastic. These sustainable trees deliver the same exceptional design, realism, and quality you expect from Balsam Hill, with an eco-friendly twist for a greener holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVC Safe for a Christmas Tree?
Yes. PVC is a commonly used and safe material for artificial Christmas trees when sourced from reputable brands. At Balsam Hill, all materials, including PVC, are tested to meet strict safety standards. For an even more realistic look, we also offer PE trees, both options ensure top quality and safety.
Which Is Better, PE or PVC for Christmas Trees?
PE trees most closely mimic the appearance and feel of real evergreens, while PVC trees offer a more traditional look at an affordable price.
What Is PE on a Christmas Tree?
PE (polyethylene) is used to create lifelike needles and branches. At Balsam Hill, we use our exclusive True Needle® technology to replicate the natural colour, shape, and texture of real tree foliage.
What Is the Best Material for a Christmas Tree?
Many high-quality artificial trees, including those from Balsam Hill, use a combination of PVC and PE foliage. This blend delivers both realistic beauty and lasting value, giving you a stunning tree that can be enjoyed for years to come.