OFF THE TICKER : The Red-Faced Norwegian Spruce

Norway exports one of the world’s most famous Christmas trees, and its lush forests traditionally have supplied most of Europe.

But Norwegians are squirming with embarrassment this year because half the trees they buy come from Denmark.

The Norwegian spruce has long been favored by Europeans at Christmas. Millions grow naturally in Norway, where reindeer roam wild and winter snows ensure a white Christmas.

But this year, half of the 1 million Christmas trees sold in Norway will be pine, spruce and fir from Denmark.

“Norway importing Christmas trees is like China importing rice,” said Egil Wettre-Johnsen, an Oslo City Council spokesman.