San Francisco's come up with a solution for people who want a Christmas tree, but perhaps feel guilty about chopping one down for a few weeks of pleasure.

They can rent a live one. It'll be picked up after the holidays and planted in neighborhoods needing some greenery.

The trees aren't the traditional firs and pines, but they're not Charlie Brown's type either. Fruitless olives, Brisbane boxes and other varieties range from six to 12 feet high. For about 90 dollars, they're delivered in pots, complete with soil, and ready for decorating.

One woman says her children call the tree Charlie Green.

The program is run by the San Francisco Department of Environment with help from the nonprofit group Friends of the Urban Forest.

12/17/05