Abstract: Christmas tree stands and packaging systems for the distribution of Christmas trees. The packaging system includes an elongated receptacle and a Christmas tree contained within the receptacle. A stand base is secured to the trunk of the Christmas tree at the butt end thereof. The packaging system is provided with means securing the base and tree within the receptacle in a manner to prevent relative longitudinal movement between the tree and the receptacle when the packaging system is in transit. The securing means fastens the base to the receptacle in a manner to prevent movement of the base toward the tip end of the receptacle while permitting the base and tree to be withdrawn from the receptacle when the butt end of the receptacle is opened. The stand base comprises a bottom pan portion and a peripheral rim portion so that the base is adapted to contain water. A peg extends upwardly from the pan portion and is provided with an axial bore therethrough from the underside to the top of the peg.