While watermelon is botanically a fruit, no U.S. state has designated it as its official state fruit. However, Oklahoma has officially named watermelon as its state vegetable.
Oklahoma's Unique Designation of Watermelon
Oklahoma stands out for its distinctive classification of watermelon. Despite its common perception and botanical classification as a fruit, the state of Oklahoma formally recognizes watermelon as its state vegetable. This designation highlights the versatile culinary uses of watermelon beyond just a sweet, refreshing treat.
Here's how Oklahoma's designation appears:
| State | Food type | Food name |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | State vegetable | Watermelon |
Understanding Botanical Fruits vs. Culinary Vegetables
The classification of watermelon as a state vegetable by Oklahoma brings attention to the difference between botanical and culinary definitions. Botanically, a fruit is the mature ovary of a flowering plant, containing seeds. By this definition, watermelon, along with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, is indeed a fruit.
However, in culinary terms, vegetables are typically savory plants, or parts of plants, that are used in main meals, while fruits are often sweet and consumed as desserts or snacks. Many plants that are botanically fruits are used as vegetables in cooking due to their savory flavor profile or preparation methods. In Oklahoma's case, the designation as a "state vegetable" likely reflects its cultural and agricultural significance within the state, perhaps acknowledging its use in various savory applications or simply as a unique way to honor a significant crop.
