Abstract: A stand for supporting a vertically extending object includes a base defining a recess having a center axis for receiving a bottom portion of the vertically extending object, and defining at least one slot. The stand further includes at least one wedge portion comprising an inward facing side, and the wedge portion is moveable within the slot. When the wedge portion is moved downward in the slot, the inward facing side moves inward toward the center axis of the recess until the inward facing side of the wedge portion presses against the bottom portion of the vertically extending object to secure the vertically extending object within the base. The vertically extending object may be a Christmas tree or similar object with a pole or pole-shaped bottom portion. A stand/object assembly includes the described stand and the vertically extending object.