Import permit and Regulated Article Name

[stonedragonfarms]

Thanks Ray, that was what I figured.
Adam

[Orchid Whisperer]

Just had an interesting thought. Does anyone know if an import permit is required for orchid seed? I am thinking here of seed that is fully ripe/dry, separated from the capsule already.

[naoki]

Originally Posted by Orchid Whisperer

Just had an interesting thought. Does anyone know if an import permit is required for orchid seed? I am thinking here of seed that is fully ripe/dry, separated from the capsule already.

All orchids are under CITES Appendix 2 while all Paphs and Phrags, and 6 other species are under Appendix 1. Seeds of App. 2 orchids are exempt, see footnote #4 here:
Appendices I, II and III of CITES
So, for most orchid seeds, you shouldn't need CITES permits. But this exemption is just for Appendix 2, so seeds of Paphs are still covered by CITES App. 1 (i.e., you need all the permits).

Now, I'm assuming that you have to get phytosanitary certificates even for seeds (importing into the US), right?

Also, some CITES regulations are interpreted differently in different countries. But it looks like with regard to seeds/pollen exemption for App. 2 species, the US law seems to be going along with the exemption:
Permits - FAQ's and Facts Index "N/O/P/Q"
(near the bottom, search for "Plant, Exemptions")

[digriz]

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_exp...y_stock_ja.pdf

Flasks of orchids can be hand carried into the US with only a phytosanitary certificate and larger, not in a flask orchids can be also hand carried into the US with only a phytosanitary certificate so long as they are free of pest and disease and you have 12 or fewer plants. CITES orchids will also need supporting CITES documentation to be enterable. More than 12 plants must enter at a port with a plant inspection station.

The manual I posted gets a bit confusing as when you work your way through it it leads you to orchids being listed as "cuttings" which really isn't accurate.

If you do bring in orchids make sure you have the correct documentation with you and really check them to make sure they don't have any insects or disease on them or they're just going to end up as compost when the CPB agriculture specialists look at them.