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Oklahoma designates mistletoe (phoradendron serotinum) as the official state floral emblem. Mistletoe is the oldest of Oklahoma's symbols (adopted in 1893 -- 14 years before statehood).
Mistletoe grows on trees throughout the state and is particularly common in the southern regions of Oklahoma. The dark green leaves and white berries show up brightly during the fall and winter in trees that have shed their own leaves.
Mistletoe is a parasite that taps into a host tree's transport system for minerals and water (mistletoe is an evergreen and also performs photosynthesis on its own).
Mistletoe with white berries - kissing under a mistletoe is a traditional holiday custom - photo © Caroline Dreams on Flikr -
noncommercial use permitted with attribution / no derivative works
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