Orchid Importation from California and Oregon
Importations of orchid plants from California need special paperwork because of the ‘Sudden Oak Death’ fungus (Phytophthora ramorum). Without the proper Phytosanitary Certificate, the plants might pose a threat to the Canadian flora and must be destroyed!
The COC has an understanding with Environment Canada in Vancouver that orchids seized due to incorrect paperwork will be sent to UBC Botanical Gardens to be kept in the general greenhouses. Within the six months since this procedure had been established, there have been only three orchids sent to UBC. All the other orchids (that have been confiscated) had come without the correct documentation, particularly without the original Phytosanitary Certificate.
Please be advised that even though you may import orchids from the USA without a permit from Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), you need an import permit for importations from California and possibly southern Oregon. Your supplier has to provide the proper declarations with the Phytosanitary certificates to make sure your plants are safe to bring into Canada. Also, CFIA must have original documents, no copies accepted!
Disclaimer: The details provided in this article are for informational purposes only. The Canadian Orchid Congress does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or application of any information disclosed in this article.