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Here's why North Carolina is among the top producers of Christmas trees in the US

Nearly 4 million trees are sold are sold in North Carolina each year.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A North Carolina tree is headed to the White House for the holiday season on Wednesday. It's the 15th time since 1971 the Tar Heel State has provided the Christmas centerpiece -- and it likely won't be the last. 

North Carolina is among the top producers of Christmas trees in the United States.

Lets connect the dots.

The popular Christmas tree species Fraser fir is unique to the region. It's only found in the southern Appalachian Mountains in higher elevations.

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According to data, Fraser firs account for 98% of the Christmas tree market in the U.S. They're called the "perfect Christmas tree."

Experts said Fraser firs have soft needles, a good smell, and strong branches, which are of course important to hold all those ornaments.

But North Carolina produces more than just Fraser firs. The state is home to over 40,000 acres of Christmas trees. Nearly 4 million trees are sold are sold in North Carolina each year.

This Christmas, choosing the perfect tree might be hard, as the state has over 200 choose-and-cut tree farms and more popping up each year. 

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