The most sustainable and eco-friendly option for a Christmas tree is using one that you already own. Whether it’s a fake tree made from plastic or a real one in your backyard – it’s best to keep them in use as long as possible and avoid buying new to avoid waste and reduce resource consumption.   

But if you are in the market for a new tree, why not consider a potted native that you can later plant in the garden! Natives are a great option because they sequester carbon for years and support local wildlife in the area, such as pollinators that rely on them for food and shelter. By choosing natives, you’re also protecting important tree species and preserving their heritage.  

You can always replant or keep them potted outdoors after the festivities, allowing you and local wildlife to enjoy them year after year. Native plants are generally low-maintenance and well-adapted to their environment, so it’s a good idea to check with your local council to find out which species thrive in your area. 

For starters, here are some natives to consider:  

NSW Christmas Bush (Image: Bronwyn/iNaturalist)

New South Wales Christmas bush (Ceratopetalum gummiferum) 

This plant lives up to its name as it is always ready for an Aussie Christmas! This small tree or large shrub can grow up to five metres, producing small, star-like white flowers and sepals that turn bright red around the Christmas season.  

Wollemi Pine (Image: Tony Rodd/iNaturalist)

Native pines  

Native pines, such as the Wollemi Pine (pictured above) or Southern Cypress Pine, offer a unique Aussie feel to your Christmas décor and make a great alternative to the traditional Christmas tree. Both pines can be enjoyed for many years, whether as part of your garden or potted. 

Woolly Bush Adenanthos sericeus (Image: smathichong/iNaturalist)

Woolly bush (Adenanthos sericeus)

Their soft, silvery-grey foliage resembles frosted winter mornings, ideal for recreating a snowy Christmas vibe. They produce vibrant red to orange flowers in spring and summer seasons, so they’re an excellent choice for attracting birds and other pollinators to your garden if you choose to move them outside.   

Honeyeater on bottlebrush plant

Bottlebrushes (Callistemon) 

One of the more popular native plants in Australia, bottlebrushes come in a variety of colours and sizes. Their bright and vibrant appearance makes them perfect for the festive season and they are also adored by nectar-loving pollinators.   There are an array of native bottlebrushes you can consider depending on your area as some species as some are better suited to cooler or warmer conditions. You can always check with your local council or your nearest native plant nursery for guidance.

Wickham's Grevillea (Grevillea wickhamii) (Image: emmafitzy/iNaturalist)

Holly-leaf Grevillea (Grevillea wickhamii)

This plant has shapes and colours that capture the spirit of the holiday season, reminiscent of the well-known Christmas plant, holly. With its prickly holly-shaped leaves and vibrant red blooms, it’s an ideal addition to your holiday decorations to symbolise the classic red and green Christmas colours.   

Image attributions

• New South Wales Christmas bush - Bronwyn.

• Wollemi Pine - Tony Rodd.

• Woolly bush - smathichong, iNaturalist.

• Holly-leaf Grevillea - emmafitzy, iNaturalist.